Hi Annette,
These kinds of issues have a way of getting to me. The students drag in late because of various reasons and when you put into place a method of rewarding the students that do get to class on time you get complaints. If you don't have something like this in place then the students can come to class anytime they want without and consequences. This really sets the tone for training them to successful in their careers. They learn that the career skills of being there and being there on time really doesn't mean anything and then they wonder why they get fired. Tardy students send a very clear message and that is their schedules are more important than you and the other students in class because they can come to class when they want. Also, when they walk into class late they are in control of the class for the time it takes them to get settled. The attention of the other students is on them not you or the course. Sorry, a little soapbox of mine.
Now to your question. Let your administration know exactly what and why you are having the quizzes and how those quizzes fit into your total course offering. Get their support in you continuing such a practice. Inform and warn the students that you will be giving the quizzes and the reason for them. You may find that they won't be necessary based upon student attendance. The key is that if the quizzes are a part of your course policy and requirements then you should continue giving them. Make sure that you can justify the reasons for giving them beyond just the effort to get students to come to class on time. I know this is the primary reason but there needs to be a sound educational benefit for giving them as well. This gives you a solid base from which you can justify what you are doing should you need to defend your position.
Gary
