Beech Tree News Network

Students will be getting an unexpected break this week as widespread illness and low attendance have prompted Butler County Schools' Superintendent Scott Howard to cancel classes for the remainder of the week. With normal attendance numbers typically around 95 percent district-wide, according to Assistant Superintendent Robert Tuck,  attendance rates have dropped significantly down into the low-to-mid 80 percent range. 

That drop was enough for Supt. Howard to pull the plug on classes and other after-school extra-curricular activities for the remainder of the week.

"Butler County Schools' attendance rate was in the low 90’s last week.  We dropped to 85 percent yesterday.  With yesterday being a make-up day, I wanted to look at today before I made the decision," said Howard.  "This morning (Tuesday), attendance was not any better.  In fact, it was a little worse across the district." 

Howard said the focus now needs to be getting students over the flu bug and other illnesses.  Local doctors have been seeing increased numbers of individuals with the flu.   

"Getting everyone well is the main priority so dismissing the rest of the week gives our kids, faculty, and staff a five-day break to rest and avoid crowds of people," said Howard.  "Our custodial staff at each school will be working to clean and sanitize the schools while they are empty."

Average daily attendance is a key factor in determining school funding.  Also, low attendance can create academic problems in the classroom as a large number of students missing classes can result in lost instructional time and can lead to students falling behind on work and assignments, which can have a detrimental impact on grades.