KIMBALL -- Mary Lynch Elementary ended the school year with a big success of over 100 students meeting their attendance goal and nearly 10 of those students maintaining a perfect attendance. 

Students are encouraged to have 2 or fewer absences each quarter, equating to 8 or fewer absences total at the end of the year.  

“Because we know that many students face illnesses and other challenges that make it difficult to be at school every single day, we chose to focus on encouraging consistent, good attendance throughout the year,” said Principal Amanda Culek. 

Local businesses partner with the school to provide rewards for students who meet their quarterly attendance milestones. 

“Over 100 students met the fourth quarter attendance goal and were awarded for their efforts to prioritize school and show up consistently,” Culek said. 

Sugar Shack provided a free ice cream cone, Nebraska Coffee offered a free donut, and Main Street Market Deli offered a free fountain soda. 

The city provided a free pool admission to each qualifying student in the fourth quarter, which the city council donated to cover the cost. 

The Sagebrush donated a $50 gift card each quarter which was awarded through a drawing for students with perfect attendance. 

“Their generosity helps us celebrate students who are making the effort to show up and stay engaged,” Culek said. “We’re incredibly thankful for this community support. It truly makes a difference." 

Culek says last year, just one student had perfect attendance, and this year, nearly 10 students maintained perfect attendance. 

“It all goes back to that old saying: ‘It takes a village,’” Culek said. “When schools, families and community members work together, amazing things happen.”