The School Board Meeting for the School City of Mishawaka on December 4, 2024, highlighted innovative programs aimed at improving student attendance and engagement. A key focus was a six-week attendance competition designed to combat chronic absenteeism, which typically spikes from October 15 to December 15. The program encourages classes to compete against each other, with incentives for participation and performance. Notably, the initiative has resulted in a 2% increase in attendance compared to previous years, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering school engagement.

During the meeting, Pat Fayes, the media clerk at LaSalle, presented collaborative projects that aim to enhance student interest in reading and learning through hands-on activities. One notable project involved creating a "Geometry City," where students built structures using paper, which helped them engage with geometric concepts in a fun and interactive way. Another project, inspired by the concept of Kane's Arcade, allowed students to design and build their own arcade games, integrating design processes and critical thinking skills.

Fayes emphasized the importance of collaboration and creativity in education, noting that these projects not only promote learning but also encourage teamwork among students. Other initiatives discussed included a shoe design project and a holiday-themed assignment where fifth graders create ugly Christmas sweaters featuring book characters.

The meeting underscored the School City of Mishawaka's commitment to enhancing educational experiences through innovative programs that address both attendance and student engagement. The board plans to continue these initiatives, aiming to sustain and further improve student participation and learning outcomes in the future.