Attendance Update

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Following requirements from the Ministry of Education, we are implementing the Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) framework. The goal of STAR is to ensure every student has the best possible chance to succeed by maintaining “regular attendance” - defined as being at school more than 90% of the time.

How the STAR Framework Works:

• A Fresh Start Each Term: The STAR process resets at the beginning of each term for every student. This allows us to track attendance patterns in manageable blocks, ensuring we can provide timely support when it is needed most.

• Focusing on Missed Learning:The primary purpose of STAR is to identify when a student may be missing out on valuable classroom learning, regardless of the reason. If your child is absent due to illness, we will code this as an M (Medical), which is considered a “justified” absence. While this is the correct way to record the absence, the system will still track it as a missed learning opportunity, allowing us to see if support is needed to help your child catch up.

Health and Well-being

• We do not encourage parents to send their child to school when they are unwell. Your child’s health is a priority; please continue to follow public health guidelines and rely on your own parental judgment - you know your child better than anyone. If they are unwell, please ensure they rest and recover at home.

Communication and Support

• Automated Emails: Please be aware that the emails generated when a student reaches an attendance threshold are automated. These are designed to keep you informed of your child’s data in real-time.

• A Case-by-Case Approach: We understand that every family and every student’s situation is unique. While the system provides us with data-driven insights, we are committed to reviewing these situations on a case-by-case basis. We appreciate your partnership in this, and we are always here to discuss your child’s specific circumstances if you have any concerns.

We look forward to working together to ensure every student at John McGlashan feels supported, connected, and present for their learning.

What is the STAR Framework?

The STAR programme is a structured, “stepped”; approach to managing school attendance across New Zealand. Instead of waiting for a student to fall behind, the system uses clear thresholds to trigger support early.

Attendance Threshold (Absence per School Response Level Term)

Why the Change?

Research from the Education Review Office (ERO) shows a direct link between attendance and achievement. Even small amounts of missed time can create “learning gaps” that become harder to bridge over time. By using the STAR framework, we can:

• Identify barriers early: Whether it’s health, anxiety, or transport, we want to help.

• Provide consistency: Every school in NZ is now moving toward this unified standard.

• Keep you informed: You will receive more frequent updates so there are no surprises regarding your child’s attendance data.

How You Can Help

As parents and caregivers, you are our most important partners in this. You can support your child by:

1. Prioritising school days: Aim to schedule appointments and family holidays outside of term time.

2. Communicating early: If your child is going to be away, please notify the office by 8.30 am via KAMAR, Email: absences@mcglashan.school.nz or Phone 467-6620.

3. Reaching out: If your child is struggling with school avoidance or anxiety, please talk to their teacher. We would much rather solve a problem together at “Step 1” than wait until “Step 4.”

“Attendance is a team effort. When we work together to get students through the gates, we’re giving them the keys to their own success.”