It is a common misconception to view a single day absent from school as a minor, isolated event—a blank space in the calendar that can be easily caught up. However, at La Fontana International Schools, we see attendance through a different lens. Our Attendance Policy is founded on the understanding that consistent, punctual attendance is one of the most critical, non-negotiable factors in a student’s academic and social-emotional development. It is the steady rhythm that underpins the entire symphony of learning.

The Academic Ripple Effect: Avoiding the Gaps That Widen
Classroom learning is a cumulative and sequential process. Each day’s lesson often builds directly upon the concepts and skills established the day before. When a student is absent, they miss a foundational piece of that learning sequence. While worksheets and copied notes can provide a basic outline of the content missed, they cannot replicate the dynamic exchange of a live lesson: the teacher’s explanation, the probing questions from peers, the collaborative problem-solving, and the immediate feedback. This creates a learning gap. As the class moves forward, the student must not only learn the new material but also work to fill in the gap from their absence, a task that requires extra effort and can lead to frustration and a feeling of being left behind. Over time, even sporadic absences can create a significant academic lag that is difficult to overcome.

The Hidden Curriculum: Learning to Be a Community Member
School is about so much more than academics. It is a primary training ground for life. It is where students develop the “soft skills” that are indispensable in the modern world: collaboration, communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. These skills are not learned from a textbook; they are practiced and honed through daily interactions in the hallway, during group projects, on the sports field, and in unstructured moments at break time. An absent student misses these invaluable opportunities to navigate social dynamics, build friendships, and strengthen their sense of belonging to the La Fontana community. This sense of belonging is a powerful motivator; students who feel connected to their school are more engaged, have better mental health, and are more likely to achieve their academic potential.

Building the Architecture of Responsibility and Routine
Attending school every day, on time, is about more than just compliance; it is about instilling a fundamental life discipline. The routine of preparing for school, arriving punctually, and fulfilling daily obligations teaches children time management, personal responsibility, and a strong work ethic. These are the very habits that will define their success in higher education and their future careers. Employers seek individuals who are reliable and consistent; by prioritising attendance, we are helping our students build that identity from a young age.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our parent community for being our steadfast partners in this endeavour. We understand that illnesses are unavoidable, and we thank you for communicating these absences clearly. Your commitment to prioritising school and maintaining a consistent routine is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child’s education. It ensures they are not just physically present, but fully available to receive the rich, multifaceted education we strive to provide every single day.