From the minute the doors open to the last bell, there’s rarely a dull moment in the front office.
Phone calls.
Emails.
Tardies.
With hundreds of absences being reported weekly, the work never stops for Attendance Clerk Keely Land.
“On a daily basis, I handle things like managing the front desk as a receptionist, answering phone calls from parents, responding to parent emails in regards to attendance, and inputting parent or doctor’s notes for students who are absent,” Land said. “It is important to keep up with the district and state guidelines for student attendance.”
This, however, is not the only career path that Land has pursued.
“I was a Heritage High school graduate so I was familiar with the Frisco school district,” Land said. “I previously worked in the healthcare field, but I was looking to explore different career options so I snagged this when the opportunity came along.”
Despite playing a more behind the scenes role, Land, like all of the office staff, is pivotal to the success of the school.
“Keely has been a great addition to our front office,” Associate Principal Tyler Wicke said. “The attendance clerk is responsible for our attendance records being accurate. The state of Texas funds schools based on Average Daily Attendance, meaning districts and schools lose funding for student absences.”
Contrary to popular belief, Land’s job entails more than handling attendance.
“In addition to dealing with all things attendance, she is a vital part of our campus security while monitoring the front door and only allowing individuals with proper ID to enter the building,” Wicke said. “She is also a resource in answering phone calls to assist parents and community members with any questions or needs they may have.”
Beyond performing her designated tasks, Land assists in welcoming people into the school with a positive attitude.
“Along with handling the attendance duties, the attendance clerk also helps with the reception area,” Registrar Sung Symalla said. “Ms. Land has a very outgoing and energetic personality which helps the positive work atmosphere.”
As with any career, there are highs and lows in every day, but to Land, it is worth it at the end of the day.
“This can be a very fast paced environment,” Land said. “My favorite part of the job is definitely getting to work with an amazing office staff.”
