During a recent meeting of the Education and Public Works Committee in South Carolina, members discussed the concerning trend of student absenteeism and the role of parental responsibility in education. The committee highlighted feedback from students who expressed a preference for online learning over traditional classroom attendance, raising alarms about the potential long-term impacts on education.

Committee members emphasized the importance of parental involvement in ensuring children attend school regularly, particularly through their senior year. The discussion underscored the need for parents to take an active role in their children's education, especially as students approach adulthood at age 18.

In response to these challenges, the committee announced plans to launch a public awareness campaign aimed at fostering a sense of belonging among students. Simple initiatives, such as greeting students who return after absences with messages like "I missed you," were proposed to help students feel valued and connected to their school community.

The committee's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing absenteeism and enhancing student engagement, with a focus on collaboration between schools and families. As these initiatives move forward, the committee aims to create a supportive environment that encourages consistent attendance and academic success.