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A True Story

Post and Courier
Article on Attendance Improvement

A True Attendance Improvement Mediation Story

Annie, a bright, second grader, and her mother were referred to Attendance Improvement Mediation. Annie had missed seven consecutive days of school, and her mother did not send in a parent or medical note to justify her daughter’s absences.

On the day of mediation, the volunteer mediator greeted them as they entered the church across the street from Annie’s elementary school and led them to a quiet room where the school guidance counselor was waiting. 

After introductions and opening statements the mediator asked the mother to tell them about Annie’s absences. Her mother explained that she was afraid to discuss the reasons for her daughter’s absences with anyone at the school out of fear that they may deem her an unfit parent. After reassurances by the guidance counselor and mediator that they were not there to judge but to help, the mother of five young children revealed that she is struggling to make ends and could not afford to pay her utility bill. 

When the electricity was turned off, she sent her children to live with her mother outside of town until she could afford to get the electricity restored. As soon as she was able she brought her children home and put Annie back in school. With this knowledge the guidance counselor was able to refer Ms. Jones to several local resources to help her with utilities, housing and food expenses until she could regain her financial footing. 

Annie has not missed a day of school since this mediation took place last fall.