Closing the GAP Lineweaver Elementary School By Ellie Marshall School Counselor

Purpose  The closing the gap group was formed at Lineweaver in order to increase school attendance of selected students, thereby improving their academic performance, school confidence, and connection to school.

GOALS  Increase attendance to at least 90%;  Improve grades and test scores;  Improve attitude: help students recognize the positive impact of attendance on school achievement.

TARGET GROUP Students selected are third and fourth graders with an attendance rate lower than 85%. The selection process included meeting with the parents and teacher of each student.

American School Counselor Association Standard Students will acquire the attitudes, knowledge and skills that contribute to effective learning in school and across the life span.

Demographics  2 females  4 males  3 third graders  3 fourth graders

Data Collection Process Data was gathered from attendance records in Mojave, report cards, and personal contact with students.

GAP Attendance Activities The Good Morning Club was formed in the second quarter of the school year. Elements: Met once a week. Students colored in graph of attendance. Received encouragement and support. Celebration lunch if met goal.

Group Activities (continued) In the third quarter, some changes were made: 2 students moved away, 2 more added. Two students were placed in other guidance groups, one for self-esteem, and one for study skills. Weekly check-in. Celebration lunch.

Good Morning Club Name______________

Group Activities (continued) In the fourth quarter, the format changed again: Daily check-in to put sticker on chart; Students came either before school, during lunch, or at another convenient time during the day. This worked better, as you can see from the following data.

Quarterly Attendance Rates (%) Note: Ci had a tonsillectomy in the third quarter.

Quarterly Attendance Data (Excused and Unexcused Absences) The tonsillectomy in the 3 rd quarter caused a spike in absences.

Combined Absences

Closing the Gap Results  All but one of the students reached their attendance goal in the 4 th quarter of at least 90%. (The 6 th one was at 89%)  Altogether, there were 35 fewer days absent within the group in the 4 th quarter than in the second quarter.  Students exhibited pride in their achievement, and looked forward to the stickers.

Presented at the Monday Morning PBS Assembly.