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Earlier this month, we reported on how schools in Charlotte County are fighting chronic absenteeism and doing much better than surrounding areas. In fact, most of these schools are seeing absences drop, with a couple hovering near pre-pandemic levels. 

Part of that comes due to the rewards program, as we highlighted last week. Each school has their own way of rewarding students, providing incentives for attendance. And here we see some of the results. 

At Phenix Elementary, the program comes in the form of free playtime and games. Principal Daniel Richardson detailed that for those who made it through each nine weeks with perfect attendance, they get certain rewards. For the first quarter, that was 30 minutes of additional playtime and popcorn.

This past week, 68 Phenix students celebrated perfect attendance for the first quarter and, true to his word, Richardson provided them with a popcorn party. Students got free popcorn, free drinks and time to socialize with friends, before heading back to class. 

A SPOTLIGHT FOR RANDOLPH-HENRY

Meanwhile, Randolph-Henry High took their students to the movies as a reward for exceptional attendance. Or rather, the movies came to them. On Oct. 25, the school administration set up an outdoor movie night for those with exceptional attendance during the first grading period. 

To be eligible, students had to maintain a record of two or fewer absences. 

As for how many were eligible? That would be 322. 

“The front lawn of the school became the perfect backdrop for an evening of entertainment, as students gathered to watch an exciting movie under the starry night sky,” Randolph-Henry Principal Erin Davis said. “In addition to the cinematic experience, students were treated to mouthwatering pizza, popcorn, and the chance to win prize raffles. This event not only celebrated the importance of consistent attendance but also created a memorable and enjoyable experience for the hardworking students of Randolph Henry High School.”