Ice Cream Social Serves Up Sweet Incentive to Help Boost Attendance

Ice cream can be a very convincing motivator for kids of all ages, and McNair Middle School has figured out a way to harness the irresistible sweet treat’s power to fight against chronic absenteeism.

On October 3rd, the school hosted an ice cream social as part of its “All in on Attendance” campaign. The event highlights how McNair is putting Fulton County Schools’ districtwide “All in on Attendance” initiative into action at the school level to encourage strong, consistent student attendance.

Chronic absenteeism is a problem for schools nationwide, and McNair is no different. Principal Keenan Cameron believes that, through his experience, the students who miss valuable instructional time have a more difficult time achieving academic success. He hopes events like the ice cream social are key to encouraging consistent student attendance.

“The campaign aims to support academic achievement and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed,” says Cameron. “This initiative reflects a school-wide commitment to fostering a culture where being present every day is a shared priority among students, families, and staff.”

The social provided a celebratory environment where more than 400 students were recognized for their attendance achievements. Games, activities, and all the irresistible ice cream flavors added to the joyful and vibrant atmosphere. Also, each grade level had its own designated time to celebrate, allowing for a more personalized and enjoyable experience.

“It was truly a memorable celebration of success and connection,” Cameron shares proudly. “It created a positive atmosphere that reinforced school culture and student recognition.”

McNair’s attendance goals are supported by New York Life Insurance through the company’s New York Life Foundation. Registered representative Prescilla Velez lent an extra hand in helping the school pull off the event, and as a Fulton County Schools (FCS) parent, she understands the value of celebrating positive progress.

“I think these events are a fun and effective way to help families and students understand attendance expectations—far better than just reading a handbook,” Velez says. “I even overheard a teacher say that some students who missed out are now being much more mindful of their attendance so they don’t miss the next event.”

Principal Cameron considers the social a success, and he champions the fact that it was the school’s first time hosting it.

“The high level of participation and excitement shows that the event met its immediate goals of engagement and celebration,” Cameron touts. 

He looks forward to seeing how similar measures will nudge student engagement in an upward direction in the future.

“The long-term proof of success will come from how well events like this contribute to broader goals, such as improving attendance, boosting morale, and strengthening relationships with students and families,” Cameron declares. “If students feel seen, valued, and motivated to come to school because of experiences like this, then it’s a win that keeps growing.”

McNair is well on its way to meeting and surpassing its attendance goals. According to Principal Cameron, the school saw a 10% decrease in September in the number of chronically absent students compared to the same time last year. To build on that success, he says, McNair will continue celebrating attendance milestones and providing support to ensure every student is present and learning every day.