In a recent government meeting, officials proposed a budget allocation of $17.99 million aimed at enhancing student attendance and dropout prevention efforts. A significant portion of this budget includes $115,000 for a new position: a Senior Coordinator of Dropout Prevention. This role is intended to provide additional support to high school graduation coaches and attendance technicians, addressing the ongoing challenges of student absenteeism and dropout rates.

The proposal also includes $21,125 for external recruitment, $1,000 for applicant verification software, $50,000 for portable fingerprint systems to be utilized at job fairs, and $40,000 for human resources case management software. Additionally, $800,000 is earmarked for MKV student transportation costs.

During the meeting, Dr. Birdsong, the Senior Director of Dropout Prevention, emphasized the necessity of this new position, noting that each high school currently has two graduation coaches. He highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach to tackle dropout rates, which have been a growing concern. The new coordinator will work closely with building principals and attendance technicians to create a more unified strategy across all grade levels, starting from elementary schools.

Board members expressed their support for the initiative, acknowledging that the decision was informed by thorough data analysis regarding chronic absenteeism and dropout trends. The administration is optimistic that this new role will significantly contribute to reducing dropout rates both in the short and long term.