Strong attendance prevents stress. Missing school often means catching up on homework, tests, and lessons—something that can overwhelm children. Attending regularly keeps learning manageable and helps students feel in control.

Students are allowed 18 unexcused hours before not earning the Christmas incentive. Remember excused hours will never count against students for the incentive.

Students are considered excessively absent in a school year when they miss 38 hours in a month or 65 hours in a school year. This includes both excused and unexcused hours. 

Students are considered habitually truant if they miss 42 hours in a month or 72 hours in a school year. This includes only unexcused hours. 

Compare two characters. Ask: 'How are they alike? How are they different?' Comparing characters encourages deeper thinking about traits and actions.

Encourage mental math. Ask your child to solve a problem like 25 + 36 in their head and explain the strategy they used.