The Foundation of Student Success
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director – United Way Charlotte County
The daily scramble of getting my daughter to school on time is embedded in my memories. Misplaced backpacks, clothing choices, “just five more minutes mom” all paint the picture. It wasn’t always smooth, but we made it work, because I knew how important it was for her to show up. And now, she’s off to college — a milestone that reminds me just how much those early years of consistent attendance mattered.
Now, in my work with United Way Charlotte County (UWCC) and in partnership with our schools, I see that same truth play out every day across Charlotte County. When we talk about student success, most people think about test scores, graduation rates, or school funding. But one of the strongest predictors of how well a student will do is much simpler: whether they show up to class.
Attendance is foundational. It’s the key that unlocks learning, connection, and opportunity. Attending school regularly is essential for students to gain the academic and social skills they need to succeed — yet for too many, this is becoming an increasing challenge.
That’s why Charlotte County Public Schools (CCPS) has made reducing chronic absenteeism a top priority. The district’s Strategic Plan calls for lowering the rate by at least one percent each year — a small but steady step with a long-term impact. As of 2023–2024, 27% of students missed 10% or more of school, according to the CCPS Data Dashboard — a baseline for future progress.
Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, for any reason — excused or unexcused. For a student enrolled all year, that’s just 18 days. It may not sound like much but missing even two days a month adds up quickly. And the impact is serious: students who are chronically absent are more likely to fall behind academically, struggle socially, and ultimately face barriers to graduation.
Each September, CCPS highlights the importance of showing up by partnering with Chick-fil-A for an Attendance Awareness Competition. One elementary, middle, and high school each earn gift cards for their students as part of a fun, friendly challenge to improve attendance. It’s a great reminder that everyday counts — not just for prizes, but for the future of our students and our community.
Congratulations to this year’s winners: Lemon Bay High School, Murdock Middle School and Vineland Elementary School.
This effort is further supported by The Patterson Foundation’s “Mission: Improved Attendance” campaign, which provides resources and encouragement year-round — including creative K–5th grade poster contests that help students take pride in showing up and inspire their peers to do the same.
When children miss school, the whole community feels it. Families, schools, and local organizations each play a role in making sure students are ready and able to attend. Together, we can remove barriers like transportation, health challenges, or family hardships that stand in the way.
At UWCC, we believe every student deserves the chance to succeed. Help us support strong families, engaged students, and a united community—because showing up today builds a better tomorrow. Check in with the students in your life—your kids, grandkids, neighbors, or friends—and encourage them to keep going, even on the hard days. Every day, every class, and every connection counts. Learn more at unitedwayccfl.org/attendance.
For more information about United Way Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community so all can thrive, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.