A united business front at the heart of the City is helping keep kids in school.
More than 40 local businesses in the city centre precinct have agreed to refuse service to compulsory school-aged children, between 8:30am and 2:30pm, unless they have a Department of Education Leave pass.
The Keeping Kids in School program is a community effort with commitment from the Department of Education, City of Kwinana and local businesses, with local schools all actively on board.
The initiative aims to encourage consistent school attendance, support student achievement and wellbeing, and promote a safe and welcoming city centre during the school day.
Mayor Peter Feasey welcomed the move, saying the shared message would improve community safety in the precinct, and also support student achievement through consistent attendance.
“Local businesses displaying the Keeping Kids in School sign have the right to refuse to service school-aged students during school hours if they do not have a valid leave pass,” Mayor Feasey said.
“Schools will also be contacted immediately by shop owners if students who are absent from school without an appropriate leave pass are found on their premises.
“Parents are encouraged to talk with their children and ensure they understand what this information means,” he said.