Alleghany High School Assistant Principal Charity Hale (left) presents a certificate to sophomore Gracyn Proffitt for perfect attendance during her freshman year. AHPS reports sharp gains in attendance over the past two years, especially at the elementary level. (AHPS Photo)

Every Day Matters: AHPS Reporting Gains in Attendance Low Moor, VA (Sept. 23, 2025) - The Alleghany Highlands Public Schools Division is reporting encouraging gains in student attendance, particularly at the elementary level, where chronic absenteeism has declined sharply since 2023. At the elementary schools, the progress has been especially notable. Callaghan Elementary reduced its chronic absenteeism rate from 31 percent in 2023 to just 7 percent last year. Sharon Elementary dropped to 14 percent, marking a 12-point improvement. Jeter-Watson Elementary showed the largest leap, falling to 23 percent, a 20-point improvement. Mountain View Elementary also made gains, with absenteeism down to 24 percent, a nine-point reduction. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10 percent or more of the school year for any reason, excused or unexcused. Research shows that students who miss just two to four days in September are far more likely to become chronically absent later in the year, underscoring the importance of consistent attendance from day one. In recognition of this, the Alleghany Highlands School Board has designated September as Attendance Awareness Month to highlight the value of every day in school. It’s important to note the distinction between chronic absenteeism and truancy. While truancy refers only to unexcused absences and carries legal implications under Virginia law, chronic absenteeism includes all absences, excused and unexcused, when they add up to 10 percent or more of the year. At the secondary level, progress has been more gradual. Alleghany High School reported a 37 percent chronic absenteeism rate, down one point from the previous year, while Covington Middle School saw a two-point decline to 32 percent. “Every percentage point matters, as attendance habits are difficult to change,” said AHPS leaders Kim Halterman and Melinda Snead-Johnson. “We are proud of the improvements across all of our schools and remain focused on building even greater momentum.” To sustain that momentum, schools are employing several strategies that connect attendance with student success. At Alleghany High School, Principal Derek Cantrell highlighted promising weekly trends: “During the week of September 8, our school achieved 96 percent attendance for three consecutive days, a clear sign that students are embracing the importance of being present,” he said. Programs such as the Cougar Scholars Club, which celebrates student achievement on Virginia’s Standards of Learning tests, help reinforce the link between attendance and academic success. The school also emphasizes the Cougar Code – Good Standing Program, which encourages students to be on time, responsible, respectful, and consistently present. Assistant Principal Charity Hale noted that the program builds accountability while giving students second chances to recover and get back on track, strengthening both learning habits and school pride. Covington Middle School is taking a similar approach, tying daily attendance to student growth, school spirit, and long-term success.  “At CMS, every single day offers new opportunities to grow, explore, and live out the COUGARS core values. Those opportunities — whether it’s hands-on classroom learning, exciting PIT STOP celebrations, Cougar Scholar recognition, Dance Party Fridays, or schoolwide events that build pride and community can only happen when students are present,” said Principal Lori Mattson. By showing up each day, Mattson explained, students are doing more than just attending class: “They are actively investing in their futures. Consistent attendance means stronger skills, greater confidence, and a deeper connection to a school community that believes in excellence, growth, and the power of showing up.” That focus is already paying off. Attendance at CMS is up 2 percent compared to this time last year, reflecting both student commitment and staff efforts to make each day meaningful and motivating.  “Every percentage point represents more learning, more achievement, and more opportunities for Covington Middle School Cougars to race toward excellence,” Mattson said. Division-wide, the attendance campaign is anchored in four key practices: engaging families to address barriers, providing early support for at-risk students, recognizing and rewarding strong attendance, and partnering with community organizations to connect families with resources. “This focus reflects our deep commitment to student success,” said Cindy Fox, supervisor of customized learning. “In our schools, every day matters. When students show up, they grow — not just in knowledge, but in confidence, community, and opportunity. Attendance is more than just a number. It’s the foundation of lifelong success.” As Alleghany Highlands Public Schools continue this work, leaders emphasize that improving attendance is a community-wide effort. With families, educators, and local partners working together, AHPS is confident that the progress already achieved will continue to build, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

* * * * *