During a recent school board meeting, David Gokhlin, a veteran social studies teacher at Memorial High School, raised critical concerns regarding the current attendance policy and the absence of traditional midterms and finals. Gokhlin highlighted that the relaxed attendance policy, which allows students to miss numerous days without significant academic consequences, has led to alarming trends. He noted that many students had accumulated excessive absences—some exceeding 20 days—yet still passed their classes, undermining the integrity of the educational system.

Gokhlin argued that the absence of rigorous attendance standards fails to prepare students for future responsibilities, whether in the workforce, military, or higher education. He emphasized that real-world expectations demand accountability, stating, “Where can you be absent for 5, 10, 15 days and keep your job?” He called for the reinstatement of traditional midterms and finals, which were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting that these assessments are vital for student preparedness.

Board members echoed Gokhlin's sentiments, expressing grave concerns about the implications of the current policy. Former principal and board member Tom Baines stressed the importance of high expectations in education, noting that the district's attendance rates have dropped significantly, with high school attendance hovering around 70%. He urged the board to reconsider the policy before the upcoming academic year, emphasizing that consistent attendance is crucial for academic success and overall student development.

The board is currently reviewing data related to attendance and academic performance, with plans to discuss potential policy changes in the near future. Members expressed a desire for a resolution that would establish clear attendance standards while ensuring fairness for all students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds who may face additional challenges.

As the board prepares to revisit these issues, the conversation highlights a growing recognition of the need for accountability in education, aiming to foster an environment where students are encouraged to attend school regularly and engage fully in their learning experiences.