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District previews MCAS and census data; launches grade‑1 attendance pilot targeting chronic absenteeism
Summary
Superintendent presented a comprehensive MCAS and local assessment packet and announced a pilot program targeting chronic absenteeism in first grade (about 12–15 students districtwide). The district said overall attendance is slightly above 96% and set a 95% attendance goal.
The Stoughton School Committee received an informational briefing on Nov. 4 that combined MCAS results, local assessments (including STAR) and other district metrics, and heard details of an attendance pilot aimed at first graders with chronic absence.
Superintendent Dr. Baietta said the administration prepared an all‑inclusive packet of 2025 MCAS and local assessment results for committee review ahead of a formal presentation and Q&A scheduled for the Nov. 18 meeting. She advised committee members to begin with the executive summary and identify priorities they would like the district to address in the FY27 budget.
On attendance, the district set a baseline goal that 95% should be the minimum attendance expectation; it reported current district attendance is just above 96% so far this year. The administration described a targeted pilot focused on first grade to address chronic absenteeism; staff estimated the pilot group consists of about 12 to 15 first‑grade students districtwide at present, though that number may change. The district emphasized a non‑punitive, family‑engagement approach: building‑based support teams will involve families and coordinate academic and social‑emotional supports rather than begin with disciplinary action.
Committee members asked clarifying questions about mobility rates, legal attendance thresholds and how supports differ at the high school level, where missed class time affects transcripts. Dr. Baietta said the district will pursue a multi‑pronged approach that includes outreach, counseling, interventionists and community partnerships; she noted that the district already provides free breakfast and lunch and may coordinate additional food supports if needed.
The administration also noted work on chronic absenteeism reporting and translation of public data into languages used by district families; committee members were asked to review the packet and return priorities for budget planning.
