– Before, the threshold was probably higher. You stayed home if you had a fever or diarrhea or vomited. Now children stay at home if they have a headache or a stomach ache, says Nordtun Stavanger Aftenblad.
The statement comes in the wake of the new figures on sickness absence in the second quarter, which are the highest in 15 years.
The Minister of Education points out that parents are role models for their children and that their attitudes influence the culture in schools.
– Pain worse
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– But keeping the child at home can make it worse. Because then the child takes with him attitudes that do not work in working life, says Nordtun.
She believes the problem with high sickness absence in working life already starts in primary school. Now, rather than introducing new laws and rules, she wants to create a culture and attitudes where people are concerned about being at school.
– That it is important to contribute to society, and that it is a duty to stand up and do what you have to. The school is not only about educating, but also about forming. Parents play an important role here, says Nordtun.
Right: Too simple
Conservative representative Margret Hagerup from Rogaland is critical of Nordtun’s plan and calls it too simple. She says the Minister of Education has not followed up the government’s own investigation into absences from school, which was ordered by the then Minister of Education Tonje Brenna in 2022 and delivered the following year.
– It feels quite hollow to read the education minister’s admonitions about a change of attitude when she herself does not address the problem. There is currently a lack of a national overview of absenteeism in primary schools in Norway. It is serious, says Hagerup to NTB.
– The Minister of Education has a responsibility to put this in place. So far she has not taken that responsibility.
#Minister #Education #easy #children #home #school
2024-09-09 03:47:35
The Rise of Sickness Absence in Schools: A Growing Concern
Introduction
Sickness absence in schools has become a pressing issue, with recent figures showing the highest rates in 15 years. The Minister of Education, Nordtun, has spoken out about the need to address this problem, which starts in primary school and can have long-term effects on working life. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the increase in sickness absence, its impact on students and society, and possible solutions to create a culture of attendance and responsibility.
The Changing Threshold
In the past, the threshold for staying home from school was higher, with students typically only absent due to severe illnesses such as fever, diarrhea, or vomiting. However, now students are staying home for less severe symptoms like headaches and stomachaches [[1]]. This shift in attitude towards attendance has sparked concerns about its impact on students’ academic performance, social skills, and future career prospects.
The Consequences of Sickness Absence
Chronic illness or treatment can result in extended absences from school, leading to new and increased academic difficulties [[1]]. Moreover, staying home can instill attitudes that do not work in working life, making it essential to address the root causes of sickness absence. The Minister of Education, Nordtun, emphasizes the importance of contributing to society and taking responsibility, which starts with attending school and developing good habits [[2]].
Role of Parents and Schools
Parents play a crucial role in shaping the culture of attendance in schools. As role models, they influence their children’s attitudes towards education and responsibility. Schools, on the other hand, must create an environment that encourages students to attend and participate actively. This can be achieved by promoting proper hygiene and handwashing practices, improving indoor air quality, and encouraging vaccination [[3]].
Solutions and Criticisms
The Minister of Education’s plan to create a culture of attendance and responsibility has been met with criticism from some quarters. Conservative representative Margret Hagerup from Rogaland believes that the plan is too simplistic and does not address the underlying issues. However, it is essential to acknowledge that introducing new laws and rules may not be the most effective solution. Instead, a collaborative effort between parents, schools, and the government is necessary to create a society where attendance and responsibility are valued.
Conclusion
Sickness absence in schools is a pressing issue that requires attention from all stakeholders. By understanding the reasons behind this trend, we can work together to create a culture that values attendance, responsibility, and contribution to society. Parents, schools, and the government must collaborate to promote good habits, provide support systems, and encourage students to take ownership of their education. Only then can we hope to reduce sickness absence rates and prepare our students for a successful future.
Keywords: sickness absence, schools, attendance, responsibility, parents, education, culture.
The Rise of Sickness Absence in Schools: A Growing Concern
Introduction
Sickness absence in schools has become a pressing issue, with recent figures showing the highest rates in 15 years. The Minister of Education, Nordtun, has spoken out about the need to address this problem, which starts in primary school and can have long-term effects on working life. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the increase in sickness absence, its impact on students and society, and possible solutions to create a culture of attendance and responsibility.
The Changing Threshold
In the past, the
