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Hemlock Public School District Posts Nearly Double-Digit Improvement in Attendance
Russ Survance
Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:27:17 EST
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Hemlock Public School District is proud to announce a significant improvement in student attendance, achieving a 9.21% overall decrease in chronic absenteeism compared to the same point last year.
After making chronic absenteeism a district-wide focus in January 2025, district leaders implemented a research-based approach centered on student engagement, positive relationships, and reinforcing the importance of consistent school attendance. The results are clear: more students are showing up, and that consistency is making a difference.
At the end of the second marking period last school year, the district's overall chronic absenteeism rate stood at 31.00%. At the end of the second marking period this year, that number dropped to 21.79% - a nearly double-digit improvement district-wide.
"This kind of progress doesn't happen by accident," said Board President Matt Wesener. "It happens because of a shared commitment from our teachers, support staff, administrators, families, and students."
"When we say 'Kids First,' we mean it. Being in school matters, and this improvement shows what's possible when a community rallies around that belief."
The district's strategy focused on identifying students at risk early, strengthening family communication, building engaging classroom environments, and reinforcing the message that attendance is directly tied to academic success and long-term opportunity.
"Our team committed to using research-based practices that focus on engagement and strong relationships," said the Director of Curriculum and Instruction. "When students feel connected to their school, to their teachers, and to their peers, they are more likely to attend consistently. Attendance is not just a compliance issue - it's an engagement issue. This improvement reflects the intentional work happening in our classrooms every single day."
District leaders emphasized that attendance is one of the strongest predictors of student success. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to read at grade level, stay on track academically, graduate, and pursue post-secondary opportunities.
While proud of the progress, Hemlock Public School District remains committed to continued improvement. The district will maintain its focus on proactive communication, family partnership, and student engagement as it works to ensure every student is present, supported, and prepared for success.
Hemlock Public School District thanks its families and community members for partnering in this important work and remains focused on creating a culture where every day counts.
