As the fresh breezes of spring settle in, our school’s halls are warmed by the radiant enthusiasm of students competing in our third Attendance Competition of the year!
The outcomes are in, and we are happy to declare that the winners of the Spring Attendance Competition were Ms. Jimenez’s 7th-grade cohort and the dedicated freshmen class of our high school! They will receive their reward of a free dress-down day due to their exceptional dedication to attending school every day.
“I am really surprised we won, since I didn’t expect we would,” said freshman Nehemiah Marsh, encapsulating his classmates’ effort while being himself surprised at the results.
Ms. Jimenez, who teaches 7th-grade Algebra, said her students became more competitive after they lost the first of Prep’s three attendance competitions – fall, winter and spring.
“After we lost the fall competition I made sure to put more emphasis on the winter and spring ones,” she said. “They get into it more and I felt like that helped. They wanted to make sure they won.
Did that competitive spirit also help the freshmen? Jimenez said she wasn’t sure.
“Having taught middle school for 10 years now I can definitely say that they are very competitive. They like to win. I’ve noticed it more with 7th grade than with 8th,” she said. “I think the idea of a competition and winning a prize works well with the younger grades. I can’t speak to how well it works with the high school grades.”
The fun didn’t end there, though! A delectable fruit cup with a selection of toppings was awarded to the top 20% in attendance of all students throughout the school. They went during an assigned period in order to claim their prize, and enjoy their victory (see photos, above, by Ms. Salazar, Ms. Mordaga and Mr. Schmerler). In addition to recognizing their regular attendance, this delicious incentive encouraged wholesome snacking.
Prep Assistant Principal Mr. Vargas said the attendance competitions have brought students closer together.
“Attendance competitions at Prep aren’t just about showing up; they’re about bringing students together, building friendships, and sparking a bit of friendly competition,” he said. “When attendance becomes a game, students find themselves eager to join in, leading to better attendance, more active participation, and a real sense of belonging at school.”
These occasions are poignant reminders of the joy that results when members of our school community come together to celebrate each other’s victories, fostering a sense of unity and dedication. Bravo to all of our winners and exceptional performers! Let’s cheer on our fellow students’ successes and excitedly look forward to the achievement of the upcoming winners! More attendance competitions are on the way next year.
Photos or info to add? Reach out to Journalism Club advisor Mr. Schmerler at [email protected].
