During the recent superintendent semifinal interview, Dr. Jenna Mitchler highlighted her commitment to improving educational experiences for historically underserved and underrepresented students. Addressing the school board, she emphasized the importance of "opening doors" for every student, acknowledging that some face barriers to their education.

Dr. Mitchler shared specific strategies she has implemented to tackle these challenges, particularly focusing on attendance issues. She noted that attendance has been a nationwide concern, with certain days seeing higher rates of absence. To address this, she analyzed attendance data to identify patterns, especially on days that were not typically associated with absences, like Tuesdays or Thursdays.

In collaboration with the school board, Dr. Mitchler proposed adding non-instructional days to the school calendar on dates that coincide with significant religious observances in the community. This initiative aims to reduce absences by respecting families' cultural practices, thereby fostering a more inclusive educational environment. She mentioned that this adjustment would only add a few days to the school year, but it is a step toward ensuring that all students have the opportunity to attend school regularly.

Dr. Mitchler's proactive approach reflects a broader commitment to equity in education, aiming to create a school environment where every student feels valued and supported. As the district moves forward, her strategies may lead to improved attendance and, ultimately, better educational outcomes for all students.