Now that families are getting used to the school schedule again, parents are often concerned about making sure their student is connected to school in a meaningful way. Paying attention to student involvement in activities, their cell phone habits, and school attendance are crucial indicators of student success and well-being.

As Crossler’s former principal, I can attest that students involved in sports, clubs, and music or leadership programs have better attendance and grades than peers who do not. School activities provide opportunities for forging strong friendships, exploring new interests, and boosting confidence. An added benefit is that often a coach or club leader is a school employee so that accountability for performing in the classroom adds incentive to excel.

Another way to ensure student engagement is managing cell phones. Providing age-appropriate expectations and limits at home is critical to minimizing unhealthy social media activity. Supporting school policy is also vital. Crossler Middle School and Sprague High School are both no cell phone use schools with some minor differences; make sure to check the school website for details. Students accessing their phones throughout the day takes student focus away from learning and often creates social distress. Valuable class time is wasted as teachers have to deal with student phone usage. Students may use phones to harass, set up fights, time their restroom breaks together, and the list goes on. Students often say that they need to look at their phones to see if their parents have sent a message. Parents, please partner with schools and support the expectations. This means setting up pickup plans in the morning, telling your students they can check their phones when school is out, and not texting your students during the school day. If you need to contact your student, call the school office, and a message will be sent.

School attendance rates plummeted upon returning to school during COVID-19 and are gradually increasing again. While students can access missed work online, nothing takes the place of direct instruction from the teacher and the ability to receive help during class. Prioritizing getting your student to school on time and making that a habit is important for their success at school.

Parenting middle and high school students can be challenging but also so rewarding. I hope your students have a wonderful school experience this year.

(Editor's note:  Kris and her husband James are your neighbors on Augusta National Drive.)