State Superintendent: Make Every Day Count Until the Last Day of School

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State Superintendent: Make Every Day Count Until the Last Day of School

Dr. Wright's attendance PSA video thumbnail.BALTIMORE (May 20, 2026) — Today, State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright released a video reminding Maryland students and families that regular school attendance counts — even with summer break quickly approaching.

Dr. Wright said, “Daily school attendance, even late in the year, still matters. Each day of instruction helps students build academic skills, strengthen relationships with peers and teachers, and prepare for a successful start next school year. Every day counts. Every day adds up. And every student benefits from being in school right up to the last day.”

The last day of school for the 2025-26 academic year ranges from June 5 to June 18 throughout the 24 Maryland school districts. In these final weeks, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) encourages students and families to:

  • Keep up consistent daily routines, such as regular bedtimes, morning schedules, and planning ahead, to help students arrive at school ready to learn.
  • Stay in close communication with your child’s school if challenges arise, and work together to address issues before they lead to more missed days.
  • Make use of the mental health and well‑being support available in your school community, and reach out to trusted staff if a student needs help staying engaged.
  • Stay connected by encouraging participation in school activities, supporting friendships, and reinforcing the importance of finishing the year strong.
  • Keep an eye on attendance patterns at home and partner with your child’s school to make sure they have every opportunity to be present and successful.


MSDE works with school systems to reduce chronic absenteeism by supporting evidence‑based practices, strengthening student connectedness, and expanding mental health and well‑being resources. For more information, visit the MSDE website.

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