Dorothy Height Elementary School, in partnership with United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley’s Community Schools United, is excited to announce the grand opening of the PAW Store attendance program. This innovative initiative aims to increase schoolwide attendance while providing families with meaningful support.

The PAW (Perfect Attendance Winner) Store allows parents to “shop” at no cost using Bone Bucks, earned when students achieve perfect monthly attendance. Each child receives a set amount of Bone Bucks per month, which families can redeem for essential items such as household goods, toiletries, clothing, and more.

“Attendance is directly tied to student success, and we know every day in the classroom matters,” said Tray Jefferson, Community School Coordinator at Dorothy Height Elementary. “The PAW Store helps motivate and support families while reinforcing the importance of showing up every day.”

Dorothy Height Elementary is piloting this program based on an idea from Principal Meredith Adams. Like many schools nationwide, Dorothy Height has faced challenges with consistent student attendance. Research shows that students with regular attendance are more likely to stay on track academically, develop positive habits, and succeed long term.

For families in high-poverty communities, barriers often extend beyond the classroom. Limited access to transportation, food insecurity, and other basic needs can prevent children from attending school consistently. The PAW Store attendance program helps remove these barriers by providing practical support while recognizing families’ efforts.

“The PAW Store is about more than rewards—it’s about removing barriers and helping families thrive,” said Principal Meredith Adams. “We want every child to know that when they show up, they’re building a stronger future, and their families are celebrated too.”

Sidney Houck, Senior Director of Community Schools United, added, “We are proud to partner with Dorothy Height Elementary on this innovative effort. The PAW Store shows what can happen when schools and communities come together to support both academic success and family well-being.”

Grand Opening Celebration

The official ribbon-cutting and first family shopping day will take place on October 8th at 8:00 a.m. at Dorothy Height Elementary. Families, community partners, and district leadership will be in attendance.