Top schools with the most improved attendance for April

WOODLAND JOINT UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Gibson Elementary School is one of the three schools with the most improved attendance for April, as part of the WJUSD “Every Day Counts” student attendance campaign. COURTESY PHOTOS

Woodland Prairie Elementary School is one of the three schools with the most improved attendance for April, as part of the WJUSD “Every Day Counts” student attendance campaign.

Pioneer High School is one of the three schools with the most improved attendance for April, as part of the WJUSD “Every Day Counts” student attendance campaign.

Image

By Angelica Vera-Franco

afranco@dailydemocrat.com

As part of its “Every Day Counts” student attendance campaign, Woodland Joint Unified School District recognized the top three schools with the most improved student attendance for April.

The three schools were Pioneer High School, Woodland Prairie Elementary School, and Gibson Elementary School. Each winning school received an “Every Day Counts” banner to display and will have a DJ play at their school as a prize.

Pioneer High School Principal Sandi Reese celebrated the continued commitment of the PHS community to showing up every day.

“We’re proud to be recognized once again for our improved attendance,” said Reese. “This award is a reflection of our students, staff, and families working together to make sure every day matters.”

Woodland Prairie Elementary Principal Kelly Schevenin applauded her school community for embracing the message of the campaign.

“I’m so proud of our Woodland Prairie Pumas for making attendance a priority,” said Schevenin. “Our families and staff are doing an incredible job supporting students, and it’s paying off.”

Gibson Elementary Principal Diana Davidson credited the dedication of the entire school community.

“Improving attendance is a team effort, and I’m grateful to our students, families, and staff for helping us reach this milestone,” said Davidson. “Every day in school truly does make a difference.”

Research shows that missing just two days a month of school can impact a student’s academic success, while coming to school each day improves academics, boosts self-esteem, and increases opportunities for college and a career.

WJUSD originally launched the campaign in January 2023 to improve student attendance districtwide. Each month, the district recognizes the top schools with the most improved attendance, and last school year added an “Every Day Counts” poster contest.

Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin praised the schools for their focus on student well-being and academic growth.

“When students are present, they’re engaged, supported, and set up to thrive,” said Ortega-Lampkin. “This recognition reflects the strong partnerships our schools have built with families to ensure students are in class and learning every day.”