Each year, the school district is required by state law to hold a collaboration meeting with the county attorney and those who support student success through attendance.

We were surprised to find out that many families are unaware that school attendance is required by law (79-201) and that parents/guardians could have legal action taken against them for not having their child in attendance at school - unless they attend a registered home (exempt) school.  Each school handbook at Columbus Public Schools clearly defines the law in Nebraska and when the school district is required to submit notice of chronic absenteeism to the county attorney.  Additionally, a school district's "state score" is determined by chronic absenteeism and once-a-year assessments built on what is being taught in the classroom. Our district score and student assessment scores are negatively impacted when a student is not in attendance regularly.

Student success starts with attendance!