Parlier elementary students greeted by super heroes at school to combat chronic absenteeism

Fresno, Calif. (KFSN) -- Kids at Brletic Elementary in Parlier were greeted by super heroes at school. Parlier high students doubled as movie stars to share an important message.

"Just stay in school because if you're not in school you're not going to be able to learn. If you're in school the opportunity is there," said James Rodriguez, Parlier High Junior.

The kids in costume helped unveil Parlier Unified's campaign to improve attendance. The district wants parents to know the expanded United Health Centers Clinic next to Brletic is available for all students.

Praxades Torres is the district's Director of Child Welfare and Attendance.

"We have the health center on a school site so what that does is if a child is sick then they can be transported to this clinic," said Torres.

Like other Valley districts--the farm labor circuit poses a big challenge for Parlier Unified. Some families have to be uprooted during certain seasons," said Torres.

"Well we do have the biggest migrant camp in the state of California," said Torres.

Despite that, Torres says the awareness project has resulted in a four percent increase in student attendance over the past two years.

"Our goal this year is to maximize our attendance and make sure there is a correlation between good health and attendance," said Alan Macedo, Principal.

The super heroes visit various campuses around town...giving the kids one more reason why it's cool to be in school.