Parents and guardians are being reminded to make regular school attendance a priority to support their children's success and long-term achievement.
"There are so many reasons to show up," said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson. "As a parent, I know school is not just a place for academic learning. It is also a place where our children form friendships, play outside, develop a sense of responsibility, and gain important life experiences. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to succeed and secure a brighter future."
Families can help identify barriers to regular attendance and take proactive steps to help get students to school.
Some simple yet effective measures include:
- Establishing consistent routines.
- Preparing for the school day the night before.
- Maintaining open communication with teachers.
- Ensuring that a child attends school, even if arriving late.
For parents and guardians of children with anxiety or other challenges that affect attendance, contacting a teacher or resource teacher may help reach a solution. Educators and school staff can provide support, connect families with resources, and develop individualized plans when needed.
"This September, every child in New Brunswick starts the school year fed, supported and ready to learn," said Johnson. "Ensuring children show up to school every day helps them cultivate good habits and maintain a sense of structure and routine, setting them up for success in the classroom and beyond."
Initiatives that have been put in place to help address chronic absenteeism include:
- Expanding the universal breakfast program in schools provincewide in September 2025.
- Implementing the school lunch program offering affordable meals across the province beginning this September.
- Investing in more classroom resources to ensure students have the support they need to succeed.
Research indicates that absences can have significant consequences on a child's education. Missing just two days per month, or 10 per cent of instructional time, is considered chronic absenteeism and can equate to four weeks of missed school in an academic year.
The government's website has tips and resources to help families support regular school attendance.
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