Attendance

Count me in logoEvery Day Counts - Even in the Early Years
Did you know that regular attendance in the early grades sets the foundation for long-term success? When children miss school, even just a few days a month, it can make it harder to keep up with routines, friendships, and learning. Helping your child develop the habit of daily attendance now builds confidence, a sense of belonging, and a strong connection to their classroom community. Every day counts, for reading, for relationships, and for growing together in faith and learning!

Routines Build Readiness
Consistent routines at home help children feel prepared and calm for the school day. A good night’s sleep, packing bags the night before, and having a set wake-up time make mornings smoother and increase the chances of being on time and ready to learn. Attending school regularly teaches children responsibility and helps them feel part of something bigger: a caring school family where their presence truly matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is school attendance mandatory?

Yes. In Ontario, the law requires all children between the ages of 6 and 17 to attend school regularly. We understand that there may be times when illness or other circumstances prevent attendance. These situations should be occasional, and any prolonged absence will be addressed by the school principal.

If your child is absent for more than 15 consecutive days due to illness, a medical note is required in order to keep them on the school register.

Our schools are committed to supporting regular attendance. We work closely with families through a variety of resources, including school counsellors, social workers, attendance counsellors, and community agencies.

If you have any questions or concerns about attendance, please reach out to your child’s school—we are here to help.

Why is daily attendance so important?

Consistent attendance helps students succeed academically, build friendships, and develop routines that support their well-being. Every school day offers valuable opportunities for growth in learning, faith, and connection.

 


What is considered chronic absenteeism?

A student is considered chronically absent when they miss 10% or more of the school year, which is roughly 18 days—just 2 days a month can add up quickly and impact learning and social development

How does attendance affect student achievement?

Students who attend regularly are more likely to stay engaged, achieve higher grades, and graduate. Even missing a few days a month can impact a student's ability to stay up-to-date and feel connected to their peers and schoolwork. 

What if my child has to miss school due to illness?

Health and safety come first. If your child is sick, keep them home to rest and recover. Chronic absenteeism refers to the occurrence of unnecessary or frequent absences, as opposed to occasional illnesses or emergencies. We encourage good communication with your school when absences are needed.


How do I report my child late or absent?

To keep our students safe and accounted for, please follow these steps when reporting your child’s absence or late arrival:

Step 1: Call the school any time to report when your child will be absent or late. A voicemail line is available 24/7.

Step 2: Leave your child’s full name, teacher’s name, and the reason for the absence on the school voicemail.

Step 3: When your child returns to class, provide their teacher with a written note explaining the reason for the absence.

Step 4: If your child is late, they must report to the office to sign in and receive a late slip before going to class.

Leaving Early

If your child needs to leave school early, please send a note to their teacher in advance. Last-minute dismissals disrupt learning and should be avoided whenever possible.

At the time of dismissal, your child will go to the office to be signed out by a parent or guardian.

What if my child will be away for vacation?

We encourage families to schedule vacations during school holiday periods, as missing class time can affect student success.

If an extended absence is unavoidable:

  • Parents/guardians must apply in writing to the principal for approval.

  • Please note that the school is not obligated to provide classwork for students on vacation.

Secondary School Exams

Exam dates are posted on the school year calendar before the start of the school year.

  • Exams cannot be rescheduled, except in cases of bereavement or serious illness (medical documentation required).

  • Vacations and summer job commitments are not valid reasons to miss exams.

  • Families are asked to schedule vacations only after the exam period has ended.

What is the safe arrival program? (Elementary schools)

Our Safe Arrival Program helps ensure the safety of all elementary students. A key part of this program is communication between home and school. Please contact the school as soon as possible if your child will be late or absent, following the four-step process above.

  • If your child usually walks to school, it is assumed they will attend on days when buses are cancelled due to weather.

  • If you choose to keep your child home on a bus cancellation day, you must call the school to report their absence.

  • Schools remain open for student learning on inclement weather days, and families are welcome to drop off and pick up students.

What should I do if my child is struggling and doesn't want to attend school?

Talk to your child first, then connect with your child’s teacher, guidance counsellor, or principal. There may be underlying academic, social, or emotional concerns that the school can help support.


What can families do to support regular attendance?

  • Establish consistent morning and evening routines

  • Schedule appointments outside school hours whenever possible

  • Communicate with the school about any barriers or concerns

  •  Talk positively about school and encourage engagement

  •  Reach out early if you need support

What information/resources are available for parents/guardians?

SMCDSB offers families mental health resources including videos, podcasts, tips from the Psychology Department, and access to community supports to help parents support their child’s well-being.

View the resources in the Mental Health and Well-Being section of our website.

What support is available for students who frequently miss classes?

Schools use a compassionate and proactive approach to support attendance. This might include check-ins with staff, attendance plans, referrals to school support teams, and conversations with families to identify and remove barriers.


What role do staff play in supporting attendance?

All staff, from teachers and EAs to office and custodial staff, can help create a welcoming, safe environment where students feel seen and valued. Positive relationships and a sense of belonging are essential to keeping students engaged.


What if attendance isn't improving for a student?

Schools will follow a tiered approach, beginning with encouragement and support. If concerns persist, schools will work with families to explore next steps, including formal support and community referrals as needed.


What does the Board's Attendance Counsellor do?

Our board’s Attendance Counsellor supports students who struggle with regular attendance. Students with extended or unexplained absences may be referred to the counsellor by the school, and parents may also reach out directly at 705-722-3555 ext. 275.

The Attendance Counsellor works with parents, principals, teachers, and other professionals to help students return to school. Services include:

  • Assessing school refusal behaviour

  • Identifying and addressing barriers to attendance

  • Developing attendance improvement plans

  • Providing short- or long-term student counselling

  • Connecting families with community agencies or medical staff

  • Referring to Board Psychologists, Social Workers, or School Counsellors

  • Conducting home visits

  • Assisting students who have left school in resuming their education

  • Supporting students with Supervised Alternative Learning (SAL) plans

  • Enforcing Section 21(1) of the Education Act (compulsory school attendance)

What is the goal of the "Count Me In" campaign?

"Count Me In" fosters a positive culture of daily attendance, grounded in a sense of belonging, purpose, and overall well-being. It encourages students, families, and staff to recognize that every day matters and every student is a valued part of the school community.


How will my child's school promote the "Count Me In" message?

Schools will integrate the campaign into announcements, classroom conversations, posters, newsletters, and liturgies. The message will be shared with warmth and encouragement, not punishment or blame.