Mark Twain Turns March Madness Into Attendance Challenge

Posted April 13, 2026, 8:00 AM. Updated April 10, 2026, 10:27 AM.

Friendly competition encourages students to show up and stay engaged in learning.

Students at Mark Twain Elementary School recently celebrated March Madness with a fun twist, focusing on attendance rather than basketball.

Throughout the challenge, classrooms competed each day to see which class could achieve the highest attendance percentage. The friendly competition encouraged students to show up ready to learn while building excitement across the school.

The top prize went to the NM Pre-K class led by Ms. Kristen and Ms. Cyndi, whose students showed that strong attendance habits start early. Their class earned a Dion’s pizza party with Principal Desiree Earnest to celebrate their commitment.

First-grade students in Ms. Duran’s class finished as runners-up and were rewarded with a ramen party the following day with Principal Earnest.

School leaders say the event was a fun way to highlight the importance of attendance and remind students that everyone benefits when they show up for learning.