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Third‑quarter chronic absenteeism remains above district target; buildings using incentives and targeted interventions
Summary
District leaders told the board that third‑quarter chronic absenteeism rates are higher than the district target of 12–13% at many buildings and described building‑level strategies intended to improve attendance before year end.
Derby Public Schools reported third‑quarter chronic absenteeism figures at the April 28 board meeting and outlined building‑level interventions to reduce the number of students missing 10% or more of days.
Dr. Holly Putnam Jackson said the district’s target is 12–13% chronic absenteeism and that third‑quarter rates are cumulative through about 38–39 membership days. Third‑quarter cumulative rates by building included: Cooper 21.5%; Derby Hills 12.5%; El Paso 20.7%; Oak Lawn 20.27%; Park Hill 15.5%; Stone Creek 14.47%; Swayney 18.9%; Tanglewood 12.29%; Y and T (middle school) 18.4%; Derby Bridal 17.34%; Derby North 17.7%; and the high school 22.75%.
Administrators described common strategies being used across buildings: nudge letters to families, in‑school incentives (class challenges, assemblies, recognition), attendance teams that meet weekly, targeted tier‑2 and tier‑3 interventions, involvement of social workers and counselors for one‑on‑one plans, and using community partners for support. Several elementary schools reported targeted incentives such as water‑play days and increased social‑media outreach to recognize good attendance. Secondary schools are looking at grade‑level trends and using character‑education lessons.
Board members asked whether the reported percentages were cumulative (the answer: yes — third quarter rates are cumulative through the first three quarters). Trustees expressed concern about the levels and urged continued emphasis on outreach and problem solving with families. Dr. Putnam Jackson said the district will continue incentives and messaging through fourth quarter and will return with updates.
Key quote
“Our goal is to reach 12 to 13%,” Dr. Holly Putnam Jackson said, explaining the district‑level target and the cumulative nature of the rates.
Context
Administrators noted that quarter three included some inclement weather days and illness-related absences that affected attendance, and that a strong fourth quarter effort is planned to make up lost ground before the school year ends.
