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Kowanyama State School a community effort

Kowanyama State School has traditionally had one of the highest rates of attendance in Cape York. This is the result of a coordinated approach to attendance in partnership with parents and the community.

Kowanyama principal Michael Ward said the school implemented a number of strategic measures to support the attendance of students at school.

"In Kowanyama our approach to attendance is to work with the community to support what students and parents expect from the school, our attendance strategies promote high engagement with the community," he said.

Mr Ward outlined the elements of the Kowanyama approach that have the greatest impact on school attendance.

"A daily pick-up service, our partnership with the local Justice Group who enforce community by-laws, and a significant rewards program for positive behaviour and good attendance are some of the strategies we have found to have the greatest impact on attendance in our school," he said.

"Rewards for positive behaviour and good attendance include special prize packs donated by our local airline for students who maintain a 95 per cent attendance rate as well as school-based rewards such as certificates are presented weekly at assembly.

"Classroom teachers also organise their own incentive programs, rewarding students with fun activities and excursions," Mr Ward said.

Mr Ward said any issues or concerns about student behaviour and attendance were addressed by working to foster positive relationships with the student, parents and teacher.

"We employ a liaison officer who conducts regular home visits to reinforce a positive approach and to nurture community connections and we invite parents into our school so they feel they are part of their child's learning experience."

For further information contact Principal Michael Ward on phone 4083 7333.

Ref: 10/20184

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