Attendance is the foundation of student success. Without consistent classroom engagement, students face learning gaps, lower grades, and an increased risk of dropping out. Reny Lizardo, a dedicated educational leader, has made it his mission to improve attendance rates and enhance academic success. His work at Irving Independent School District (ISD) has demonstrated that when students show up, they succeed.
Through strategic leadership, innovative attendance programs, and community engagement, Lizardo has implemented solutions that empower students. His approach not only addresses chronic absenteeism but also fosters a culture of learning, motivation, and achievement.
Why Attendance is Key to Academic Success
The relationship between attendance and student performance is undeniable. Research shows that students who miss more than 10% of the school year are at greater risk of:
Lizardo believes that attendance is the first step toward student empowerment. When students are present, they have access to teachers, resources, and peer interactions that are crucial for academic and personal growth.
Reny Lizardo’s Student-Centered Approach to Attendance
Lizardo has developed a multi-faceted approach that focuses on engaging students, supporting families, and using technology-driven solutions to improve attendance.
1. Building a Positive School Culture
Students are more likely to attend school when they feel safe, supported, and valued. Lizardo has worked to create a positive school culture by implementing:
By nurturing an inclusive and engaging environment, Lizardo ensures that students want to be in school.
2. Engaging Families as Partners in Education
Many attendance issues stem from family-related challenges, such as transportation issues, financial struggles, or a lack of awareness about attendance policies. Lizardo has introduced parent-focused initiatives to:
By strengthening parent-school relationships, Lizardo ensures that families play an active role in student success.
3. Using Technology to Track and Improve Attendance
Lizardo has embraced cutting-edge technology to monitor student attendance in real-time. Schools under his leadership use:
These tools allow schools to intervene early and provide personalized support for struggling students.
4. Providing Incentives for Consistent Attendance
Rewarding students for good attendance can be a powerful motivator. Lizardo has implemented creative incentive programs, such as:
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