Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) launched the “Here Today, Ready for Tomorrow” campaign in September to promote Attendance Awareness Month and encourage consistent student attendance.
According to HCPS, September was marked as Attendance Awareness Month to highlight that absenteeism in the first month of school can predict ongoing attendance challenges. Students missing two to four days in September often miss nearly a month of school, potentially hindering academic progress in reading, math, and overall achievement. Regular attendance is said to support higher academic performance, graduation rates, and future career success.
Families are encouraged by HCPS to support consistent attendance by avoiding vacations and medical appointments during school hours. Establishing routines for mornings and bedtime, preparing backpacks and clothes in advance, and discussing the importance of attending school with children are also recommended. HCPS suggests monitoring student anxiety, communicating with teachers and school counselors, and seeking community support for transportation or health concerns when needed. Tracking attendance at home and developing backup plans can help students remain on track.
HCPS schools implement multiple strategies to improve attendance. These include dedicated attendance teams, recognition programs, and data tracking through tools like Unified Insights. Schools such as Springfield Park, Ridge, Harold Ratcliffe, and Mills Godwin High School use celebrations, quarterly themes, home visits, and individualized outreach to families to address absenteeism. Multilingual communication, community engagement, and coordination with school staff help ensure that chronic absenteeism is identified and addressed.
Henrico County Public Schools serves more than 330,000 residents across Henrico County, Virginia. It operates 74 schools and program centers reflecting the county’s geographic and social diversity. The division is recognized for academic excellence and innovative programs guided by its strategic plan “Journey to 2030,” which emphasizes academic achievement, supportive learning environments, student health, and staff development. HCPS aims to empower every learner through engaging experiences that prepare students for future careers and personal growth. The division is led by Superintendent Dr. Amy E. Cashwell.
