In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the progress and challenges of a middle school engagement project aimed at improving student attendance. The initiative, which has been implemented in six schools, faced staffing shortages, particularly in the Cold Springs and Clayton areas, impacting its effectiveness. However, preliminary data indicates that consistent staff presence has positively influenced attendance rates.

The program aims to expand its reach, with plans to assign dedicated staff to each middle school, contingent on securing necessary funding. For the upcoming year, five middle schools are expected to participate, reflecting a hopeful outlook for the initiative.

Significant changes have been made to the attendance monitoring process. Previously, students were placed on formal attendance monitors for 20 days, but data showed this had little effect on chronic absenteeism. In response, the monitoring period has been extended to 45 days, allowing for more substantial behavioral changes. Early results show that 51% of students on these extended monitors improved their attendance, a notable increase from previous efforts.

The meeting also highlighted the work of reengagement specialists who successfully re-enrolled 290 students this year, with 69% remaining enrolled the following semester. These specialists focus on students who have dropped out or are severely chronically absent, employing innovative strategies to help them reintegrate into the school community.

Attendance officers reported conducting nearly 2,000 student transports and over 3,200 home visits to address absenteeism. The district is developing a comprehensive chronic absenteeism plan that includes both systemic and individual interventions, aiming to create a more effective attendance system across schools.

Looking ahead, the district plans to implement a check-in/check-out system designed to foster relationships between students and trusted adults, targeting those at risk of chronic absenteeism. Additionally, the district is enhancing its parent portal to streamline absence reporting, improving communication and reducing unverified absences.

The meeting concluded with discussions on supporting special populations, including students in transition and foster care, who experience high rates of absenteeism. Efforts to stabilize families through resource centers are also underway, recognizing that family crises can significantly impact student attendance.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to addressing chronic absenteeism through targeted interventions, community collaboration, and ongoing evaluation of strategies to enhance student engagement and attendance.