Following the example set by Foley High School and county attendance officer Lorry Redditt, Elberta Middle School conducted an attendance information meeting for the seventh and eight graders enrolled in Elberta Middle.

EMS principal Jon Cardwell spoke to the students about the importance of regular school attendance and how poor attendance affects all aspects of their lives. Angie McLean, school counselor, reinforced Mr. Cardwell’s encouraging words as well as talking to them about confiding in a trusted adult if there are problems that keep them from attending or wanting to attend school. Mrs. McLean assured the students that all of the adults at Elberta Middle School care about their success in school and in life, and are

willing to help them.

County Attendance Officer Lorry Redditt then questioned the students about the Baldwin County attendance policy. Many of the students were uncertain of the number of absences that the policy allows before “red flags” go up indicating an attendance problem. Dr. Redditt explained the process of Early Warning to the students and how absences are handled once a student has attended the Early Warning program.

Students were encouraged to make attendance a priority. Habits and practices that are formed early in life will greatly affect the choices they will make as they prepare for their adult lives.

Dr. Redditt also made the students aware of the many agencies in Baldwin County that are available to render services if there is a need. Each student received a copy of the agency listings to take home.

The main emphasis of the meeting was to let the students know that they have many people behind them who want them to succeed, and that we are here to provide the tools and encouragement for them to achieve any goal they may set.