Ontario's education minister Paul Calandra has introduced a policy linking student grades to classroom attendance, a move that has sparked debate but is widely seen as a practical response to a growing crisis. Under the new rules, 15 per cent of marks for students in Grades 9 and 10 will be tied to attendance, while the figure drops to 10 per cent for senior students in Grades 11 and 12.
Alarming Absenteeism Rates
The policy comes in response to startling statistics showing that only 40 per cent of secondary school students meet the provincial standard of attending class 90 per cent of the time. In elementary schools, the figure is slightly better at 55 per cent. These numbers suggest a widespread disregard for regular school attendance, a trend that predates the pandemic. In 2017, only 60 per cent of high school students attended regularly, indicating that the issue is not merely a pandemic hangover.
Parental Responsibility Questioned
Critics argue that the root cause lies with parents who fail to ensure their children attend school. Many parents seem to tolerate truancy or even take children out of school for family vacations, sending a message that education is not a priority. This is particularly concerning at the secondary level, where students should be learning responsibility and reliability for their adult lives. The policy aims to incentivize attendance without resorting to punitive measures, though provincial legislation already allows fines of up to $1,000 for parents of chronic truants.
Rewarding Attendance, Not Punishing Absence
Education Minister Paul Calandra's approach focuses on positive reinforcement rather than punishment. By offering bonus marks for regular attendees, the policy rewards students who show up and do the work, mirroring the expectations of the working world. Some have criticized this as unfair to those who do not attend, but the minister argues that it is a kind and sensible step. For students, these are the easiest marks they will ever earn, providing a simple incentive to be present.
Respect for Teachers and Taxpayers
Beyond the impact on students, chronic absenteeism undermines the efforts of teachers and wastes the $30.3 billion Ontario spends annually on public education, most of which goes to teacher salaries and classroom infrastructure. Regular attendance shows respect for educators and ensures that public funds are used effectively. The policy is a reminder that education is a shared responsibility among students, parents, and the government.
