Tallassee schools dramatically reduce chronic absenteeism

Cliff Williams / TPI Southside Middle School principal Brittany Spencer changes the number of chronically absent students at the school from 18 to 19 on Monday, the same day students who were not chronically absent were treated to a gaming day.

Just two years ago the Tallassee City School system nearly 30% of Tallassee students were considered chronically absentee. That improved to 11% last year. The school system released it improved again this past school year to 9%. It is a remarkable improvement of nearly 70% in two years.

“This notable progress is a direct result of the collective commitment and collaboration among our community members, parents, staff and students,” Southside Middle School principal Brittany Spencer said. “By working together, we have made student attendance a shared priority and a cornerstone of student success.”

Cliff Williams is a staff writer for Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. He may be reached via email at cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com.