Attendance and Absenteeism
The key to improving attendance lies in a collaborative approach. While initial improvements can begin on a small scale, the most effective and sustainable strategies involve shared accountability, capacity building, actionable data, positive engagement, partnerships, and equitable resources. These elements work together to create a comprehensive and lasting impact on student attendance. Use this website to learn about tiered approaches that can effectively address chronic absenteeism.
Attending school on time and every day is the foundation that increases a student’s learning potential and positive opportunities through life. It is also the law (Revised School Code Act 451 of 1976). If you have questions regarding truancy in your district, please contact us.
![Attendance Works Take Action thumbnail]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1699976861/resanet/t0dav3wdw7ldtlnxlkqm/Attendance-Works-Take-Action.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1699976861/resanet/t0dav3wdw7ldtlnxlkqm/Attendance-Works-Take-Action.jpg","width":398}])
![Attendance Works Toolkits thumbnail]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1699976822/resanet/lchnaxszvwttwumooqxb/Attendance-Works-Toolkits.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1699976822/resanet/lchnaxszvwttwumooqxb/Attendance-Works-Toolkits.jpg","width":398}])
![Attendance Works Webinars thumbnail]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1699976744/resanet/yidq9eloszjhhivpkrvq/Attendance-Works-Webinars.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1699976744/resanet/yidq9eloszjhhivpkrvq/Attendance-Works-Webinars.jpg","width":398}])
![Attendance Works Research thumbnail]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1699976413/resanet/ywgplnifjiy8izcm2jpk/Attendance-Works-Research.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1699976413/resanet/ywgplnifjiy8izcm2jpk/Attendance-Works-Research.jpg","width":398}])
Systemically Addressing Attendance
The resources and interventions on this webpage are structured into tiers. The first tier encompasses universal strategies applicable to all students and families, while the second and third tiers provide increasingly targeted support for students with higher absenteeism levels. This approach is recognized by educators and public health officials familiar with other multi-tiered support systems like Response to Intervention and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support.
Foundational Support
Effective attendance strategies require a foundation of key conditions (Attendance Works website), including physical and emotional well-being, a sense of belonging, engaging academics, active student involvement, and emotional support. These conditions are built through relationship-building and are crucial for motivating students to attend school.
Tier 1: Universal Prevention
These strategies focus on preventing absenteeism among all students. Examples include setting attendance expectations and recognizing improvements.
Strategy List: Engaging with Families, Student-Teacher Relationships, Relevant-and Culturally Relevant-Instruction, Restorative Discipline Practices, Summer Learning and Afterschool Strategies, Positive Greetings at the Door, Rethinking Recess, Healthy School Buildings, School-based Health Services, Telehealth, Free Meals for All, School Busses, Safer Walk to School, Laundry at School
- (PDF) Attendance Playbook by Phyllis Jordan - May 2023
Tier 2: Targeted Assistance
These interventions aim to remove attendance barriers for students at higher risk of chronic absenteeism, like those nearing or already meeting the 10% absence threshold. They can be applied to individuals or groups with similar challenges, requiring more personalized attention from schools to emphasize the importance of attendance and develop barrier-reduction plans.
Strategy List: Early Warning Systems, Targeted Home Visits, Mentors and Tutors, Targeted Youth Engagement, Addressing Asthma, Mental Health Support and School Refusal, Students with Disabilities, Immigration Enforcement.
Tier 3: Intensive Intervention
These interventions offer extensive support to students at the highest risk of chronic absenteeism. They often involve customized case management and may include cooperation with health, housing, and social services agencies. This level of support is beneficial for students missing 20% or more of the school year.
Strategy List: Interagency Case Management, Housing Insecurity, Truancy.
Contacts
Dana Chicklas
Senior Executive Director of Communications, Public Relations, and Marketing
School:
(734) 334-1499