Count Day is October 7: Every Student Counts!

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) families, mark your calendars! Count Day is Wednesday, October 7, 2026, and every student counts.

Count Day is an important day for DPSCD students.  Student attendance helps determine critical state funding that supports the programs, resources, staff, and services our students rely on throughout the school year. Simply put, when students show up, our schools are stronger.

This year, we’re reminding families that When Students Show Up, Grades Go Up! Consistent attendance helps students stay connected to classroom instruction, build strong relationships with teachers and classmates, and stay on track academically.

What If My Student Is Absent on Count Day?

While families should make every effort to ensure students attend school on October 7, students who are absent may still be counted if they meet the following requirements:

• Excused absence: The student attends school within 30 calendar days following Count Day.
• Unexcused absence: The student attends school within 10 school days following Count Day.

Families should follow their school’s normal attendance procedures to report an absence and ensure appropriate documentation is provided when necessary.

Families Can Help

Please make sure your student:

• Attends school on Wednesday, October 7
• Arrives on time and ready to learn
• Remains in school for the full day
• Continues building strong attendance habits throughout the school year

Every day in the classroom is an opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Count Day is one important day, but strong attendance throughout the school year makes the biggest difference.

DPSCD families, we need you on October 7. Be present. Be on time. Be counted!

For additional information about Count Day or attendance requirements, please contact your child’s school.