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2 Auburn schools honored for reducing absenteeism by Governor

  • Posted by The Burbs (Sponsor: North End Motor Sales) September 24, 2024 - Filed in News - #Auburn  #Auburn Public School  #Bryan Mawr Elementary School  #Pakachoag Elementary school  - 1,067 views


    Auburn Public Schools photo

    BOSTON – Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey recognized 2 Auburn elementary schools, Bryn Mawr and Pakachoag, for significant reductions in chronic absenteeism during a ceremony on Monday.

    The schools were among 10 across the state honored for their efforts in improving student attendance rates.

    Governor Healey, joined by Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler and other state officials, presented a golden basketball signed by the 2024 World Champion Celtics to each of the winning schools. The basketballs, part of the Celtics' collaboration with the state’s "Attendance All-Stars" initiative, celebrate schools that saw the greatest drops in absenteeism between March 2023 and March 2024.

    Both Bryn Mawr and Pakachoag Elementary achieved absenteeism rate reductions of 17.7 and 19.3 percentage points, respectively. Chronic absenteeism, defined as students missing 10% or more of the school year, has been a persistent challenge in Massachusetts. The statewide average fell by 5 percentage points over the same period.

    Governor Healey praised the schools' efforts, emphasizing the importance of daily attendance for student learning and well-being. “We know how important school attendance is for learning, socialization, access to healthy food and so much more. It takes a lot of effort from everybody – families, principals, teachers, guidance counselors, support staff – and these communities are proof that hard work pays off," Healey said.

    Auburn’s success reflects a broader push by the state to combat absenteeism through initiatives like universal free school meals and mental health support.

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