After wondering what other school districts could learn from Gladstone's improved attendance rates at all four of our schools, an education news reporter from The Oregonian visited Gladstone High School and the Gladstone Center for Children & Families.
Newspaper reporter Julia Silverman took photographs of "Gladstone Shows Up" signs that our teacher on special assignment Ali Feuerstein designed in both English and Spanish formats to help foster a culture of attendance citywide. Silverman learned how all Gladstone staff work together to achieve improvements in attendance data by making sure kids have what they need to come to school.
Silverman spoke with parents and students about what makes them excited to come to schools every day in Gladstone. While she only had time to visit two of our schools, Silverman spoke with a variety of staff members who have positively affected our district-wide attendance, including our student and family advocate.
Other participants included Assistant Superintendent Jeremiah Patterson, GCCF Director Sarah Dunkin and GHS Attendance Secretary Jeanetta Hale. Thanks as well to those parents and students who were willing to speak with the press!