To help promote strong attendance, with an emphasis on elementary schools most impacted by absenteeism, the Padres teamed up with San Diego Unified on a public service announcement and campaign that challenged students to improve attendance from March 1 through April 30, 2024.
In all, 65 schools showed improved attendance rates through the challenge.
Paradise Hills Elementary School won the challenge after achieving the highest rate of improvement in attendance. In addition to winning tickets to a Padres game for students, family members and staff, each student at Paradise Hills Elementary also received a Manny Machado bobblehead and attendance certificates signed by the Padres third baseman who is well known for stellar attendance at games and practices.
Coming in a close second was Fletcher Elementary School. The students, family members and staff at that school also received tickets to a Padres game and were surprised with a visit from the Friar and Pad Squad.
The other 63 schools that improved attendance, received up to eight tickets to a Padres game to raffle off to students.
Both the Padres and San Diego Unified are hopeful the attendance campaign will make a lasting impact and curb absenteeism going forward.
“When our students are in school every day, we know they can thrive. Even for our four- and five-year-old students, it is important to attend school regularly. San Diego Unified is grateful to the Padres for their partnership in promoting strong school attendance, and for our shared commitment to fostering conditions in San Diego that give every student a sense of belonging.” -- Superintendent Dr. Lamont Jackson
Since the pandemic, schools locally and nationwide have seen a spike in absenteeism. COVID-19 and other illnesses, mental health needs, housing and food insecurities, unmet transportation needs, and inflation, all contribute to chronic absenteeism.
San Diego Unified is committed to identifying the root causes of chronic absenteeism, and is working to implement solutions and strategies to support families so all students can regularly attend school and excel.
The Padres have been longtime supporters of San Diego Unified and public education. The team stepped up with an offer to help when it became aware of the increase in absenteeism, especially at schools in areas that were hit hardest by the pandemic.
“No matter what you want to be in life, every
day you’re in school will help you get closer to your dreams. I’m so
proud of all the students in San Diego Unified for the great job they did with
this challenge. You’re all pros in my book!” -- Manny Machado, Padres Third Baseman