Healthy Students. Better Attendance. Brighter Futures.
The Connection Between Student Health and Attendance
Every day of school matters. When students miss too many days, they risk falling behind academically, socially, and emotionally. Did you know that health is one of the leading factors impacting chronic absenteeism?
Missing 10% of school days (2 days per month) — excused or unexcused — can add up to a child being considered chronically absent.
The Health Connection
Asthma is a top cause of missed school days.
Mental health challenges like anxiety and depression often lead to absences.
Dental pain and untreated cavities can make it hard for students to focus or attend.
Lack of vaccinations can prevent students from attending school during outbreaks.
Action Steps for Families
Schedule regular medical, dental, and vision checkups outside of school hours.
Keep up to date with immunizations and school health requirements.
Create a routine for sleep, nutrition, and physical activity.
Seek support for mental health concerns early.
Resources
-
Immunize your children
Immunizations, also known as vaccinations or "baby shots," can protect your child from many serious diseases. Parents should make sure that their children are up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations infants and childrenpreteens and teens. Parents should ask their children’s pediatricians about vaccinations at each visit.
Children without doctors or children who are uninsured can be vaccinated at St. Joseph Center for Health and Human Services. Older children can also be immunized at school through Vaccinate Before You Graduate.
-
-
Make sure your child has developmental screenings
If your child is an infant or toddler, talk to your child’s doctor about developmental screening
If your child is 3-5 years old, find out where to get screened by your school district’s Child Outreach program.