For the second consecutive year, Detroit Public Schools Community District is relaunching an incentive program aimed at improving attendance rates among high school students by offering direct financial rewards to those with perfect attendance. The program, titled “Perfect Attendance Pays,” allows students in grades 9 through 12 to earn up to $1,000 for maintaining full attendance during designated periods of the school year.
The program is scheduled to begin immediately after winter break. The first attendance cycle will run from Monday, January 5, through Friday, January 9. Students who attend school every day during this five-day period will receive a $100 digital Visa gift card. These weekly cycles will continue through March 20, giving students the opportunity to earn up to ten rewards, totaling $1,000, according to CBS News.
Boosting Attendance and Academic Success
District officials explained that absenteeism is a greater challenge at the high school level compared to earlier grades, particularly during the months following school breaks—a critical period for academic progress. The financial incentive was introduced as a way to strengthen student commitment and encourage consistent classroom attendance.
Officials emphasized that the program’s goal extends beyond boosting attendance numbers. It also seeks to foster a culture of discipline and help students recognize the importance of daily engagement in their education, especially during a stage that directly affects their future academic and career opportunities.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by Detroit Public Schools to address learning loss and improve overall student performance, as data shows that attendance rates typically decline during the winter months. The district encourages parents and students to visit its official website for full program details and eligibility requirements.