While most students have missed school at least once, Damian Renteria didn’t get the memo. Or even a fake cough. Or senioritis. In fact, the Woodland High School senior has done the unthinkable: 13 years of perfect attendance.

That’s 2,340 school days. Zero absences. Not even one sleepy Monday off since his first day of kindergarten. It all started with a conversation he had with his mom when he was a child.

“I asked my mom if it was possible to have perfect attendance for all of my school years, and she responded, ‘absolutely,’ and that is what encouraged me until this day,” said Renteria, who graduated June 6.

His mother’s encouragement and the example set by his older sister, Cindy Renteria, helped fuel his goal. Cindy, who achieved perfect attendance at Pioneer High School, now teaches at Woodland Prairie Elementary School.

Damian’s journey wasn’t without challenges. As a student-athlete, staying healthy was difficult at times, and there were days he felt like missing school. But he credits his family’s support and his own determination to push through the toughest moments.

“There were many days when I felt tired or just plain burnt out, but I knew kindergarten me wouldn’t give up,” Renteria said. “This goal became a commitment, not just to myself, but to my teachers and classmates.”

Renteria says the experience has taught him lifelong skills, including consistency, time management, and perseverance.

“Perfect attendance may seem like an award to others, but to me it shows accountability and reliability,” he said.

Woodland High School Principal Gerald Salcido commended Damian for his achievement.

“Thirteen years of perfect attendance isn’t just a streak,” said Salcido. “It’s a statement of commitment, resilience, and the power of showing up every single day, a truly rare and remarkable achievement. It is the kind of trait that all future employers would want in their organizations. I would definitely hire him.”

Woodland Joint USD Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin praised Damian’s dedication.

“Damian’s achievement is extraordinary,” said Ortega-Lampkin. “Not just because he never missed a day, but because it reflects his deep commitment to learning and personal growth. He’s an inspiring example of what’s possible when students set goals and stick to them, and we are so proud to see him represent our district in such a meaningful way.”

Renteria plans to attend the University of California, San Diego, where he will study biochemistry. He hopes to pursue a career in chemistry or engineering and believes his consistent attendance helped him build the discipline it takes to chase his dreams.

“I’m excited to have the resources and people to boost me toward achieving what I’ve strived for my whole life,” he said. “The same discipline that I had in high school will carry over to this new chapter.”

Asked what message he would share with younger students following in his footsteps, Renteria was quick to point out the bigger picture: “Showing up every day to school is more than just a habit,” he said. “It’s a commitment to your education, your teachers, and your future.”

As he celebrates this achievement, Renteria expressed gratitude to his mother and sister for their support.

“Thank you for sticking with me all the way through,” he said. “I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you, Mom, for waking me up on time, making me breakfast, and taking me to school on time. Juggling all these things may be tough, but you pushed through. Thank you to my sister for raising the bar for me and motivating me to reach it. Thank you for lifting me up. Thank you for everything.”