For many parents, September and the start of the school year is viewed with mixed emotions. For some, there is a sadness as they separate from their children for the first time or after a summer rich in intimacy. But for many others, September can't come soon enough to bring relief from noisy and demanding children under foot.

Sad or happy, each group of parents is looking for the Farmingdale Schools and its teachers to assume the discipline and instruction of their children for a good part of the day. They rightly expect their children to go to school and come home again, knowing a bit more than when they left in the morning. And judging by the successes of our students over the years, Farmingdale schools and its teachers have an excellent record of doing just that. Each year we build a new three-legged stool supported by legs for parents, students and teachers. Working together, they produce an excellent education. Of course, that's under ideal circumstances.

As teachers, we are ready, willing and able to do our part in this process. But, sometimes, quite frankly, students simply don't show up for class.

If the students don't show up for class, the best efforts of teachers and the best intentions of parents will be without effect. That's why the school district has a new attendance policy that is designed to encourage regular attendance.

Students, especially as they get older, sometimes cut classes to hang out with their friends or engage in other non-school activities. Parents need to pay close attention to this behavior when it is called to their attention and put a stop to it as soon as possible.

But parents also need to remind themselves not to keep children out of school unnecessarily. Parents often believe children will not suffer if they miss a Friday or a Monday, or both, to accommodate long weekend vacation plans. A mid-winter week in Disney World may be educational, but not nearly as valuable as that same week in school. Doctor appointments are important, but so is school. Contrary to popular belief, the younger the child, the bigger the impact of missed school. Think twice about keeping a child out of school unnecessarily.

The new attendance policy provides that a student with more than 19 absences will not be given credit for a course. This applies mainly to secondary level students where courses are separate. But that's a worse-case scenario.

Even missing just a few days of school can have a significant impact if the student isn't present for an important topic, a vivid and memorable class discussion or the repetition of a drill needed to completely absorb important concepts and facts.

What I am saying is simple: Show up for class. You'll be glad you did.

Welcome back. It's great to see you. Now, let's get to work.