Press Release
The Rainy River District School Board is launching the “HERE” campaign to address a very important focus.
Working together with eight district school boards in the Thunder Bay region, the RRDSB aims to support student achievement by addressing persistent student absenteeism.
The “HERE” attendance campaign first was introduced at a meeting of the Northern Ontario Education Leaders (NOEL) this past spring.
Designed to build awareness around the attendance issue in Northwestern Ontario, the campaign provides communications support tools to boards and schools to help improve attendance.
According to data collected in the 2013-14 school year, students in the Thunder Bay region (from Kenora to Manitouwadge) had the highest rates of persistent absenteeism in the province.
Students are considered persistently absent if they miss 10 percent of the days they were expected to be in school.
In the Thunder Bay region, the rate of persistent absenteeism was 21.6 percent.
The reasons for persistent absenteeism across the region are diverse and varied, and can include mental health issues, issues associated with low socio-economic status, sporting events, illness, medical appointments, family travel, and family commitments.
The “HERE” campaign provides resources to schools to build awareness among all stakeholders about the importance of regular school attendance:
•For students, “I’M HERE” means they are present. They are “here” physically and mentally.
•For parents, “I’M HERE” means they are ready to assist and encourage their children.
•For teachers and staff, “I’M HERE” tells us that there are dependable, concerned, and caring adults ready to help students achieve to their full potential.
•For community, “I’M HERE” demonstrates that organizations support the children in their district.
“We know that persistent absenteeism greatly impacts students and their ability to achieve and prepare for their futures,” said Heather Campbell, director of education for the Rainy River District School Board.
“We recognize that there is a not a one-size-fits-all solution to solve the issue,” she noted.
“But this campaign provides a starting point for staff, students, and parents to work together in the interest of student achievement and well-being.”
