Sadie Pattinson knew after being recognized for perfect attendance in kindergarten through third grade that she wanted to try not to miss any school and she enlisted the help of her parents, Ron and Connie.

"This took commitment on everyone's part," said Sadie, who encourages younger students to get involved in school. "It has really paid off for me. I enjoyed school and the activities that I committed to and that obligation to participate also made my attendance necessary and besides, I didn't want to miss anything."

Her parents said that early on they realized how committed she truly wa...