Sunnybrae Elementary School has kicked off a new initiative aimed at fostering a culture of attendance and perseverance among students. Inspired by the Summer Olympics and Paralympics, the “Bee A Champion” program rewards students for their dedication to school and encourages them to strive for excellence.
Sunnybrae principal Roberto Kesting said the importance of regular attendance stating “Each day students attend school presents an opportunity for growth and development. Through a high level of attendance, students have a much greater chance for academic success. As educators, we have 180 chances to help young minds grow each year. Our goal is to make every day count by being present and taking advantage of these opportunities.”
Sunnybrae has set a target of 95 percent daily attendance, rewarding the entire school with a special activity once this goal is achieved for 50 days. Individual achievements include recognition in the following attendance categories:
Record Holder: 100% attendance (0 days absent);
Gold Medalists: 98-99.9% attendance (3 days or less absent);
Silver Medalists: 95- 97.9% attendance (4-9 days absent);
Bronze Medalists: 92-94.9% attendance (10-14 days absent).
Sunnybrae’s students and staff recognized attendance achievements of select students who were enrolled last year during their September assembly. Twenty-six students were honored with gold medals and three students (Raheem Harris, Ava Todaro, and Catalina Ucci) were celebrated as Sunnybrae’s Record Holders attending 187 consecutive days of school. Sunnybrae plans to continue kicking off the school year with a celebration of attendance, as Principal Kesting believes in rewarding students for their commitment to making every day count.
“Daily attendance is vital to student success. As a district we are focused on making every day count for our students during the school year. Sunnybrae’s ‘Bee A Champion’ exemplifies this effort,” shared Dr. Scott Rocco, Superintendent of Schools.’

Sunnybrae Elementary School attendance record holders, with 187 consecutive days of attendance: Ava Todaro, Raheem Harris and Catalina Ucci.,