(NHS) senior, Thomas Pack, encouraged students to believe in themselves and to succeed in life with strength and hope. He brought the house down with his powerful words and served as the final speaker of the panel of dignitaries who gathered for the annual celebration.
Dr. Bryon Schaefer, Superintendent of the Kern High School District emceed the program and shared the successes the KHSD has seen implementing strategies to improve attendance. Last year there were 4,000 fewer absences than the year before, and 40,000 fewer absences than 2014.
“The goal for all of us, working together, includes early identification and intervention, finding those students not enrolled in school, working with other agencies to help students develop positive attendance patterns, and family support and education.” – Dr. Bryon Schaefer, Superintendent, KHSD
Dr. Schaefer was joined on the stage by Dr. Mary Barlow, Kern County Superintendent of Schools, who said she was proud of the collaboration and outreach projects addressing chronic absenteeism throughout the county.
Chief Lyle Martin of the Bakersfield Police Department explained why he cares so much about keeping students in school, saying daytime burglary, vandalism, and graffiti numbers mirror absenteeism statistics.
“When you succeed, we all succeed.” - Chief Lyle Martin, Bakersfield Police Department
Kern County Supervisor Leticia Perez told students good attendance was a strong predictor of graduation and encouraged students to prepare for their future now and be successful beyond college.
“Pursuing your dreams starts with the habits you are setting today!” – Leticia Perez, Supervisor, Kern County
Every school day counts. For additional resources for schools, students, and parents, please visit www.kernstayinschool.org.
