Superintendent’s Message

Dear District 23 Families,

Welcome back to a new school year! We hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer, and we are excited to begin this year together with your children. The first day of school is September 10, 2026.

As we start the 2026–27 school year, we want to highlight one of the most important factors in your child's success: being in school, on time, every day, starting from day one. Consistent attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic achievement, and even a few missed days early in the year can put students behind in ways that are hard to make up.

Why Attendance from Day One Matters

The first days of school set the tone for the entire year. Teachers use this time to build relationships with students, establish classroom routines, and begin instruction. Students who are present from day one is better positioned to feel connected to their school community and to stay on track academically.

Understanding Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism means missing 10% or more of the school year — that's just 18 days, or about two days a month, whether the absences are excused or unexcused. Research shows that students who are chronically absent, even in the earliest grades, are more likely to struggle with reading proficiency, fall behind academically, and face challenges graduating on time.

Chronic absenteeism can add up quickly and quietly. A day here or there may not seem significant, but missing just two days a month over the course of a school year can have a lasting impact on a child's learning.

How You Can Help

• Make sure your child arrives at school on time, every day.
• Schedule medical and dental appointments outside of school hours when possible.
• Talk to your child about the importance of attendance and routines.
• Reach out to your child's school if you are experiencing challenges that make regular attendance difficult — we are here to help.

Our schools are committed to supporting every family and every student in achieving strong attendance this year. Please don't hesitate to contact your child's school with any questions or concerns.

Thank you for partnering with us to ensure your child has a successful and healthy start to the school year.

Warm regards,

Superintendent Khalek Kirkland