At West Clermont Local Schools, we believe in doing whatever it takes to help our students succeed. One of the most important things they can do is simple: show up.
We’ve made real progress over the past year in terms of student attendance. Chronic absenteeism is down from 30.5% during the 2023-2024 school year to 28.7% for the 2024-2025 school year. This equates to a 5.9% decrease in the number of students identified as being chronically absent year-over-year, down from 2,256 to 2,075 students. Such an improvement means more students are now getting more consistent learning time, more chances to build relationships, and more opportunities to grow.
We’re especially proud of the impact of our Absence Intervention Teams. These teams focus on students with the highest levels of absenteeism, and it’s working:
● Severe absenteeism is down 14.9%
● Moderate absenteeism is down 5.9%
● At-risk absenteeism is down 4.9%
Our overall attendance rate is now 91.3%. That’s something to celebrate and keep building on. To keep this momentum going, we are continuing our partnership with FC Cincinnati and the Stay In The Game Network! This initiative helps us highlight the importance of daily attendance in ways that connect with students and families. It also adds a fun, motivational element to our efforts with engaging activities, incentives, and school-wide events that celebrate attendance progress.
As we enter a new school year, we know that attendance is a team effort. When students are in school each day, they have the best chance to learn, lead, and succeed. That’s what it means to be WC Strong.
Here are a few ways families can help keep students on track with daily attendance:
● Set a routine: Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times make mornings smoother.
● Plan ahead: Lay out clothes, pack lunches, and organize backpacks the night before.
● Schedule wisely: Try to make medical and other appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
● Communicate early: If challenges come up, reach out to your child’s teacher or school staff. We’re here to help.
● Celebrate progress: Recognize your child’s efforts to be in school every day — it builds positive habits.
With everyone working together, we can continue building on our progress and give every learner the time and opportunity they need to thrive.
Dr. David Fultz
