Salem, Ore. – On November 10, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) presented Chávez Elementary School with an award for its notable progress in student attendance. The ceremony, held at the school’s east‑Salem campus, highlighted the collaborative effort that turned the school into a place where students want to be.
Recognition from state officials
ODE Director Charlene Williams addressed the assembled students, families, teachers and community members, saying the award “recognizes the hard work of students, families, teachers, school staff and community members who have worked together to make school a place where students want to be.” She added that Chávez Chargers are “leading the state in something that really matters for student success.”
Attendance numbers show steady improvement
According to ODE data released earlier this month, Chávez Elementary’s average daily attendance rose from 89 percent in the 2025‑26 school year to 93 percent for the current 2026‑27 term. The upward trend reflects targeted outreach by the school’s attendance team, which includes regular phone calls to families, transportation assistance for students facing bus challenges, and a school‑wide incentive program that rewards perfect‑attendance weeks.
Family and community involvement
Principal Maria Gonzalez credited parents for the turnaround, noting that “when families understand the long‑term benefits of consistent attendance, they become our strongest allies.” The school’s PTA organized a series of community events—family game nights, after‑school tutoring sessions and a neighborhood clean‑up—that helped strengthen ties between the school and the surrounding neighborhood.
Teacher initiatives support student engagement
Teachers at Chávez Elementary have also adjusted classroom practices to keep students engaged. Fourth‑grade teacher Luis Ramirez introduced a “Morning Check‑In” routine, allowing students to share how they feel before lessons begin. The approach has been credited with reducing early‑day tardiness and fostering a sense of belonging.
Looking ahead
School officials say the attendance award is a milestone, not an endpoint. The school plans to expand its mentorship program, pairing older students with younger peers to model good attendance habits. Additionally, the district is exploring partnerships with local businesses to provide after‑school enrichment that further incentivizes regular school attendance.
Community response
Local residents expressed pride in the school’s achievement. Long‑time Salem resident and parent of two Chávez students, Karen Miller, said, “It’s wonderful to see our kids coming to school eager to learn. This award shows what can happen when a community rallies around its schools.”
The ODE award ceremony underscores the state’s emphasis on attendance as a key predictor of academic achievement. By celebrating Chávez Elementary’s progress, officials hope to encourage other schools across Oregon to adopt similar collaborative strategies.
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
