The morning air buzzed with energy as Spring ISD staff, partners, families, and board members gathered at Momentum High School on Saturday to kick off the district’s Attendance Matters Walk.

There was music, laughter, and a lot of heart as the group danced to the Cha Cha Slide. On a widescreen TV, several Spring ISD schools tuned in via Zoom to join the celebration. Hearing their names shouted out sent the virtual crowd into a cheering frenzy, drawing claps and smiles from those gathered in the gym.

The event, part of the district’s EVERYday Counts, Attendance Matters campaign, aims to reconnect with students who haven’t returned to class or are struggling with attendance. Volunteers spent the morning making phone calls and board members jumped in the Spring ISD van and visited homes, checking in with families and letting students know they’re not alone—and that Spring ISD is here to help.

Attendance numbers are up around the district, however the students are more than just numbers. Each of them have unique circumstances that require nuance and care. Student success is what the district strives for.

The conversations were real and heartfelt, and for many families, it meant a lot just to see someone show up at their door, not to scold or judge—but to listen, offer support, and open a door back to school. Superintendent Dr. Lupita Hinojosa understands this and feels it is an imperative part of the relationship between the district and the students.

“It is important that we make the students feel seen,” Hinojosa said. “We visited with students who were missing school due to particular circumstances, but no matter the reason, all of our students matter to us and are still a part of the Spring ISD family. We want them back consistently in the classroom.” 

For students who may have left due to personal challenges or work obligations, the district shared information about flexible options like Momentum High School, where students can earn their diplomas while balancing jobs or college coursework. The students were also given goody bags that held school supplies, their academic records, and resources that can help them get back on track. 

And while the walk was focused on bringing students back, it also served as a reminder to celebrate those who show up day after day. There was a period during the kickoff ceremony that honored many students that earned perfect attendance, chief among them Spring Leadership Academy who had 393 of their 400 students earn perfect attendance status. 

The Attendance Matters Walk may only happen once a semester, but the message is constant: every student is important. Sometimes, all it takes is a knock on the door to remind them of that.