District chronic‑absenteeism remains above target in most buildings; central office outlines interventions

Derby, Kan. — District officials presented third‑quarter chronic‑absenteeism rates to the board on April 28 and outlined school‑level interventions intended to reduce absenteeism before the end of the year.

Key figures: Dr. Holly Putnam Jackson reported third‑quarter cumulative chronic‑absenteeism rates (students missing 10% or more of school days) as follows: Cooper 21.5%, Derby Hills 12.5%, El Paso 20.7%, Oak Lawn 20.27%, Park Hill 15.5%, Stone Creek 14.47%, Swaney 18.9%, Tanglewood 12.29%, Y and T 18.4%, Derby Middle 17.34%, Derby North 17.7% and Derby High 22.75%.

Interventions: Staff described building strategies including nudge letters, attendance teams and incentive programs (class challenges, assemblies, prize incentives and attendance‑focused events such as a water day). Several schools reported individualized plans and tier‑2/tier‑3 interventions including social‑work support and attendance‑care teams.

Why it matters: Chronic absenteeism correlates with learning loss and reduced achievement. The board reiterated its goal of reaching a district rate of roughly 12–13% and asked schools to continue targeted outreach and incentives as fourth quarter approaches.

Board reaction and follow-up: Trustees asked clarifying questions about whether the presented percentages were cumulative (Dr. Putnam Jackson confirmed the third‑quarter percentages reported were cumulative for the school year through third quarter). Trustees expressed concern at the number of buildings above the target and urged continued use of incentive and outreach strategies.

Ending: Staff will maintain fourth‑quarter incentives and report updated rates at future meetings.