Children and parents should not be punished for tardies or absences. There are often extenuating circumstances. Many kids legally drop out of school by age 17. Courts get involved, leaving parents to seek alternative options.
I’m tired of hearing older people say that kids today have no manners or respect. I see adults in the same boat. I ask, “Were you ever a teenager?” No response. Respect goes both ways. It’s these same kids who use those respectful manners when it matters most.
Forget the national average. Stop pressuring educators to teach to the test. Our kids are showing growth in many areas even when we are not watching them.
Some advice from a retired teacher who used to be in the trenches: No tardy rule. Instead, let the student know upon showing up to class, you are glad to see them. No questions asked. The student is left with their dignity intact.
If a student has a prearranged absence — on vacation or hunting, don’t lesson plan. Wish them well and excuse their work because there are still opportunities for them to meet the required state standards. Students will be eager to share exciting experiences upon return.
Other present-day situations are doctor, dentist, and orthodontist appointments that interfere with a student’s attendance — real-life opportunities that show how the real world works. Parents should be commended for providing these. What better teacher! These same students are learning from the time they get up until the time they go to bed, every day, just in different settings.
When did we stop trusting parents’ judgements? They are the only ones who should determine whether their child’s absence is excused or unexcused. They are the only ones who know what’s best for their child. They are trying their best to raise hardworking, self-sufficient, responsible, independent kids.
According to Superintendent Rick Holt, “People were racking up excused absences at an inordinate rate that made them chronically absent.” What does that even mean?
As educators, we are only there to meet every student with the skills they bring, to build upon those skills, to nurture them, and to help them climb the educational ladder.
We need to stop judging parents and their kids for their circumstances. We should continue to encourage our students to use their critical skills, to question their choices in this chaotic world, and yes, to encourage them to come to school whenever possible.
Let’s stop making so many rules only to give exceptions along the way. Every kid and every situation is a unique exception to the rule and should be treated as such.
Let’s stand together to pave the way for our future leaders who deserve the very respect, trust, and hope that were once given to us.
Maria Martinez
Pagosa Springs, CO