The Rise of Absenteeism, the Fall of Motivation

I recently came across an article in The New York Times discussing absenteeism and its detrimental impact on education, particularly in urban and underfunded areas of the United States. Although over a decade since I last taught in the US, I've witnessed similar challenges with absenteeism during my time in China.

My journey in education began after graduating from high school in 1999. Education serves as a gateway to opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach for the average individual without the right connections or social capital. It is instrumental in empowering ordinary people to become extraordinary contributors to society. Recognizing our shared humanity, we must refrain from hasty judgment for momentary lapses and acknowledge that we all encounter experiences—both in education and in life—that we wish could be altered due to undesirable outcomes.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for many students at Nanjing High School of Jiangsu Province. Despite the adversity we faced, it's important to acknowledge that those responsible for assessing the Cambridge International Exams remain unaffected by our struggles in China. We must adhere to Cambridge's examination protocols while managing our school and personal responsibilities with integrity, avoiding shortcuts, and resisting the temptation to seek online answers. Attendance and diligent effort are essential for achieving success.

While I empathize with those who make mistakes, trust becomes difficult to establish when there are inconsistencies between words and actions. Upholding standards is crucial for our school's integration within the community. Attendance, focus, and preparedness for future endeavors are non-negotiable. If students are not actively engaged in their learning, it prompts reflection on their identity as students—whether they are passive clients or individuals willing to embrace challenges and learn from their mistakes.

My vision for our school is to cultivate a community of students willing to take risks, prioritize effort over correctness, and consistently demonstrate their presence. We can foster a more vibrant and compelling educational environment by striving for excellence and maintaining honesty about our objectives.