Tardy tracking provides important data for schools and can be done manually or through the use of technology.

There are many benefits to tracking tardiness, including:

• Improved academic performance: Students who are tardy to class are more likely to miss important instruction and fall behind in their studies. The data you collect from tracking tardiness can help you identify students who are struggling and provide them with the support they need to succeed.
• Reduced discipline problems: Tardiness can be a sign of  an underlying problem, you can help identify students who are frequently tardy to address the problem before more serious ones arise.
• Improved school climate: Tardiness can create a disruptive environment in the classroom. Reducing the number of tardy students can help your campus run smoothly.
• Increased parental involvement: Tardy tracking can help parents stay informed about their child’s attendance and identify any problems early on. Parents should be notified after a student has shown a pattern of tardy behavior.

There are different ways to track tardiness. Some schools use a simple sign-in sheet, while others use more sophisticated systems that can track students with apps on their phone or self-serve kiosks.

The best way to track tardiness will vary depending on the individual school. It is important to choose a system that is easy to use and that provides the information that the school needs to identify and address tardiness problems.

Here are some tips for effective tardy tracking:

• Communicate with parents and students. Keep parents and students informed about the school’s tardy policy and the consequences for tardiness.
• Be consistent. It is important to be consistent in enforcing the tardy policy. This will help students understand the expectations and avoid tardiness.
• Offer support. If a student is struggling with tardiness, offer them support. This could include advice about tutoring, counseling, or other services.
• Monitor progress. It is important to monitor the progress of students who are tardy. This will help you determine if the tardy policy is effective and if any changes need to be made.
• Offer positive reinforcement. As students’ behavior changes in a positive way, and they are consistent with being on time, make sure to offer encouragement to students to keep up the improved behavior.
• Talk about future recourse. Explain big picture thinking to students to make them aware that consequences for tardiness go beyond the walls of the school. Tardiness behavior can translate to other aspects of their lives and negatively impact them, as being late for their job can result in termination or other professional repercussions.