Education
With a new school year starting, many parents have mixed emotions about the summer being over, and their children back in school. A challenging question for many is: "How can I help my child make the most of this school year?" Here are a few thoughts, based on a total of 26 school years for my kids:
- Daily Attendance Matters a LOT
One of the most stunning statistics out of Highline, and indeed of all districts statewide and nationwide, is the major decrease in student attendance post-Covid. There are many reasons why, but one clear outcome is that lower attendance is strongly associated with decreased learning. So, prioritize attendance!
In the 2023-24 school year, just 62.9% of Highline students attended 90% or more of school days. That means 37.1%, or over a third, were missing at least two days per a typical 20-school-day month.
This is not fair to teachers. It is not fair to administrators. It is not fair to taxpayers. And most of all, it creates extra stress and challenges for your child.
For the state as a whole, the attendance rate was 72.7%. So, the Highline rate is like an "own goal" in soccer. For those wondering, "own goal" means a goal accidentally scored for the opposing team. Our already challenging situations for many Highline families are made even worse when kids are not in school.
- Back to School Night Matters
Look for information on back-to-school night – and go! Not just for any free food, not just for a chance to see other parents, but to connect with your child's teacher and school leaders. This will help you to see your child's learning environment so you can have deeper connection with them about their school day.
I remember several years ago talking with a principal about how few parents show up for back-to-school night. Ordinarily, he was an easy-going, warm, friendly, caring person whom I've never seen angry. But when he was talking about how few parents showed up, he got agitated in a way I'd never seen. It was the agitation of "I care about these children. I want them to have a future. That's why their parents have made incredible sacrifices to get to America. But we NEED to connect with parents."
So, go to Back to School night.
- Connect with Teachers Using Whatever Works for You
The Highline District, and many others, make extensive use of email and web communications. This works for some parents. For others, it does not. Many use phones, not PCs, for email. These phones may not always work the best for reading materials. So, parents, be responsible: if the default communication methods are not going to work for you, speak up. The Highline District has helpful staff at the district headquarters who love to assist families. If you can't get assistance from your school, consider contacting the Family Center.
- Student - Parent - Teacher Conferences
These conferences are held in November, usually the week of Thanksgiving. If meeting time options don't work, contact your child's teacher at sign-up time and finding an alternative way to connect. Maybe it is a session via online technology such as Zoom, a phone call or arrange your meeting for another day. There are many options, and it's important to find one that works.
- Build Community with Other Parents
Connecting with other parents is extremely helpful. Sometimes it takes extra work! But it is well worthwhile. There are lots of times to do this: before or after school, during school while volunteering, sports and other activities, religious groups and more.
A parting comment
Being a parent of children in public school definitely takes work. Parenting in general is not a spectator sport. While Highline and nearby districts have many challenges and some real weaknesses ultimately, parents do have great opportunities – and great responsibilities – in education. Best wishes for you as you step up to make the most of the 2025-26 school year!
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