Attendance & Engagement Matters at COA

September is Attendance Awareness Month, and here at Carolus Online Academy (COA), we know that showing up—both virtually and in-person—makes all the difference.

Why Attendance Matters

Even in a virtual school, attendance is about more than just logging in. Each day your child participates in class, joins small groups, or engages in their online coursework, they are building the skills and habits needed for success. Research shows that consistent attendance leads to:

• Stronger academic achievement
• Improved time management skills
• Deeper connections with teachers and peers
• A sense of belonging in the school community

Our Truancy Officer also reminds us that going to school every day is not just important, it’s the law. South Carolina requires children to attend school from age 5 (if they turn 5 by September 1) until they turn 17 or graduate. Parents and guardians play a vital role in helping their children attend school regularly.

What Counts as Missing School?

It’s important to understand the difference between excused and unexcused absences:

✅ Excused Absences may include:

• Illness
• Death or serious illness in the family
• Religious holidays
• School-approved events or activities

❌ Unexcused Absences include:

• Skipping class or school without a valid reason
• Missing school with parent permission but without an acceptable excuse

💡 Note: Suspensions do not count as unexcused absences for truancy purposes.

A student is considered truant if they have 3 consecutive unexcused absences or 5 unexcused absences overall. If absences continue, students may be considered habitually or chronically truant, which can lead to Family Court involvement.

Engagement Beyond the Screen

At COA, engagement goes beyond showing up to class. We encourage students to:

• Participate in breakout rooms and class discussions
• Complete assignments on time
• Join clubs and extracurricular activities
• Attend in-person events across South Carolina
• Celebrate achievements with peers and staff

Even excused absences add up. If a student misses 10% or more of the school year (about 18+ days), they are considered chronically absent. This can affect learning, progress, and even school funding.

How COA Recognizes Attendance & Engagement

We love to celebrate students who consistently show up and engage with our school community:

• Phoenix Scholar Awards 🦅 – honoring academic and engagement excellence.
• You’ve Been Spotted! 👀🔥 – weekly shout-outs for positive habits and character.
• Rising Phoenix of the Month 🌟 – spotlighting students who demonstrate strong habits of mind.
• Event Incentives 🎉 – fun opportunities and surprises for students who attend in-person events.

Tips for Parents & Learning Coaches

• Keep track of your child’s attendance daily.
• Communicate with teachers if your child is struggling.
• Build a consistent school routine at home.
• Reach out to COA staff if your family needs support—we’re here to help.

Rising Together

At Carolus Online Academy, we believe that attendance and engagement fuel success. By showing up consistently, our students are not only following the law but also preparing themselves for future opportunities.

This September—and every month—let’s work together to make every school day count. When students stay connected and engaged, they soar.

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