The Lake County Office of Education recognizes that good school attendance is essential to academic success.

Equal opportunity for all children to learn, regardless of circumstances or social standing, is a foundation of our education system.

Each year, many children are denied that right because of chronic absenteeism from school. All efforts by the school system and teachers to improve curriculum and instruction won't matter if kids aren't in school.

Chronic absence is described as missing 10 percent of the school year—or about 18 days – for any reason, excused or unexcused.

When students improve their attendance rates, they improve their academic prospects and chances of graduating. This matters to everyone in the community, not just those with school-age children.

Addressing chronic absence is a key component of improving graduation rates, increasing academic achievement, and giving young people the best chance at success in their adult life and becoming active members of their communities.

During the first month of school, and every month, help your children and the children you know build a habit of regular attendance.

Parents should make getting their children to school on time every day a priority. If there are barriers to improving attendance, like health-related issues or lack of reliable transportation, parents can talk with school administrators to help solve those issues.

Everyone plays a role in ensuring that our children attend school regularly. Let us help all students attend today so they can succeed tomorrow.

Brock Falkenberg is superintendent of schools of Lake County, California.