It seems that skipping class has gotten a lot more complicated since Houstonist was in high school. Back then we just had our friend with the most motherly handwriting give us a note for our bi-weekly dentist appointment. The administrators of Ball High School in Galveston must have heard of our fool proof system, as they are preparing to launch a system of their own that will place a "tattle-tale" call to parents for every student marked absent when a teacher takes roll.
Similar programs have been in place at both Friendswood High School and Dickenson High School with much success. "Attendance rates at those high schools have really improved," said Marcia McMahon, executive director for secondary education. "I have two kids that go to school in Friendswood, and I get calls from the school. My kids know that it is not advantageous to skip class because mom will find out."
The AlertNow system is internet-based, allowing school districts to begin usage without having to add extra hardware or software systems to their computer and telephone structures. The messages can be sent in either English or Spanish, making the margin of miscommunication very small. The system will be used for a number of other tasks, including informing parents about school events, closures, and emergency situations. GISD hopes to have the system up and running by February 20th.
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photo credit: College Football Resource
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