Welcome to Week 7 of The Missing Link newsletter!
This week, we focus on one of the most powerful predictors of academic success – attendance.
Before students can learn, grow, or shine… they have to be present.
And nothing influences attendance more than parent involvement and family routines.
In The Missing Link, we emphasize that families are the first line of support in helping students show up consistently – physically and mentally – to the classroom.
This week, we turn awareness into action.
📊 Key Concept:
Attendance = Achievement
Consistent attendance is more than just showing up – it sets the stage for:
✔️ Stronger reading and math growth
✔️ Higher motivation and engagement
✔️ Fewer behavior challenges
✔️ Better grades
✔️ Long-term success in middle and high school
But here’s the real “missing link” many don’t talk about:
When families feel connected to the school, attendance improves.
Parents are more likely to ensure their child attends when they trust the school, feel welcomed, and see the value of every school day.
🧩 This Week’s Challenge Action: Attendance Commitment Plan”
This week, families and schools work together to create a simple, clear attendance routine.
Parents:
Here are three steps to complete this week:
Set a Sleep + Wake Routine
• Consistent bedtime = successful mornings
Create a “Morning Launch Space”
• Backpack ready, clothes picked out, water bottle prepared
Talk to your child about school importance
• Ask: “What motivates you about school? What goals can we set for you this week?”
Schools & Teachers:
✔️ Reach out to families with a positive message reinforcing the importance of attendance
✔️ Share tips for establishing consistent routines
✔️ Celebrate students with strong attendance this week
Create a simple “This Week I Will Be Present” card for students to check off each day they attend.
🤔 From The Missing Link:
Parents may not control everything – transportation, health, weather – but they play the biggest role in morning readiness and mindset.
🧐 Insights
Sometimes parents underestimate how quickly absences add up.
• Missing just 2 days a month = 18+ days a year
• Missing 10% of the school year = “chronically absent”
• Chronic absence lowers reading and math skills significantly
Attendance isn’t about perfection – it’s about consistency. Small changes in routine make big changes in outcomes.
📋 Reflection Question of the Week
Ask this at home, in class, or during team meetings:
➡️ “What can we do this week to make mornings smoother so we can arrive on time?”
This simple question can unlock new habits and better routines.