'It's going to be contagious:' MPS students are signing an attendance pledge
MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Public Schools' leaders are asking students to put it in writing. Students throughout the district are signing the attendance pledge. The campaign gives kids a good reason to get to class.
Dr. Keith Posley
Like picking up a rhythm, Milwaukee educators believe repetition is key to getting and keeping kids in school.
"Our goal is to do everything we can on a proactive measure to make sure our young people are in school daily," said Dr. Keith Posley, interim superintendent.
The "Every Day Counts" attendance campaign pushes positive re-enforcement over punishment.
Bradley Tech freshmen were the first to put their name and personal goals on the line on Wednesday, Aug. 15.
"Try to be early to class. Come to school every day. Do what I gotta do to get out of here," said Lilyaa McGee.
In return for signing the pledge, teachers promise to support struggling students and reward kids with good and improving attendance.
"It's going to be contagious. Everyone in the district will do it and we look forward to our attendance growing throughout the school year," said Dr. Posley.
Students said positive attention helps -- but the best motivation is personal.
"I want to be something in life, not just sit home on the couch watching TV. I want to do something and have a career," said McGee.
Educators said they believe that drive can start in the classroom and catch on district-wide.
Attendance is an issue at every grade level. Kindergarten and first-graders who miss more than 10 days a year are less likely to be reading by third grade.
