Although more special education students than ever are being placed in the general education classroom, placement of African-American and Hispanic students still lags behind that of White students. In addition, data show that disproportionate percentages of African-American and Hispanic students continue to be classified into special education. But results show more will succeed if they get a better curriculum in a better educational environment. However, we need to focus more than ever on improving achievement in the middle grades, where results are unacceptably low. In April, the Board of Regents continued discussion of a proposed statewide attendance policy and reviewed a draft of regulatory language that will strengthen attendance recordkeeping and the ability of schools to assess patterns of attendance and to take corrective actions to improve attendance.
Attendance is a critical factor in school success for students.
Consistent school attendance, academic success and school completion have a positive correlation. School attendance is both a right and a responsibility in the State. Children have the right to attend school between the ages of 5 and 21, and are mandated to attend between the ages of 6 and 16. Parents are expected to make sure that their children attend school on a regular basis. A positive school culture is a prerequisite for good attendance.