Superintendent raises idea of attendance requirement for holiday assistance; board voices concern about punishing children

During the superintendent’s report, he relayed a proposal from the district key‑club advisor to require a minimum attendance rate as a condition for receiving holiday assistance. The advisor suggested a cutoff of roughly 85% attendance between the start of school and mid‑November; the superintendent said state expectation is 95% attendance and that the proposal aims to incentivize school attendance.

Board members voiced concern about using attendance rules to deny aid to children, saying it could unfairly punish young students whose parents do not prioritize school or who face obstacles. One board member said it would be unfair “to not have Christmas because his parents didn’t value the school.” Others suggested outreach and exception processes for families with legitimate absences.

The superintendent said he is “intrigued” by the idea but concerned about unintended harm and asked the board for direction. Board members generally favored outreach and coordination rather than a strict cutoff; the superintendent said he would pursue outreach and further discussion rather than immediately imposing an attendance requirement.

No formal policy change or vote occurred at the meeting; the board asked administration to refine options and to consider an outreach-first approach and potential exception processes.