Hattiesburg, MS - Every day in school matters. From learning in the classroom to developing friendships and life skills, regular attendance lays the foundation for academic success and future opportunities. This September, the City of Hattiesburg and Hattiesburg Public Schools joined together to spotlight the importance of showing up by recognizing Attendance Awareness Month.
On September 18, 2025, Mayor Toby Barker and the Hattiesburg City Council issued a proclamation officially declaring September as Attendance Awareness Month. The proclamation acknowledges the nationwide school absenteeism crisis and emphasizes the need for prevention, early intervention, and supportive environments that encourage students to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
“Regular school attendance plays a critical role in ensuring that students have the opportunity to achieve academic success, develop essential life skills, and build a brighter future,” said Jasmin Baxter, Communications and Engagement Coordinator for Hattiesburg Public Schools, “This proclamation serves as a reminder that ensuring students are present, engaged, and supported in school is a responsibility we all share—families, educators, and community leaders alike.” This recognition aligns with the National Attendance Works Campaign, which Hattiesburg Public Schools actively participates in during September. Using the theme “Here Today, Ready for Tomorrow,” the district is jump-starting efforts for a positive 2025–2026 school attendance year. Throughout the month, HPS highlights research, resources, and tips to support good attendance while addressing challenges such as chronic absenteeism, enrollment declines, and learning gaps.
The proclamation stresses that improving attendance and engagement requires collaboration. Families, schools, elected leaders, and community partners must work together to rebuild trust, identify barriers to attendance, and provide students with the resources they need to succeed. It notes that taking attendance daily in a caring and consistent manner is essential for ensuring students receive timely support before falling too far behind.
The campaign is more than a month-long initiative for Hattiesburg Public Schools; it’s a commitment to student growth and community strength. Good attendance is a win-win for us all and is one of the most powerful indicators of student success.
As the proclamation affirms, building an engaging school environment that motivates attendance is key to ensuring every child has the chance to learn, grow, and reach their potential. Hattiesburg’s families, educators, and leaders are proving that Tigers are mighty; here today, and ready for tomorrow.
Click Here to view Attendance Awareness Proclamation of 2025