Parkrose attendance report: district rate near 47% chronic absenteeism; students point to burnout and transportation

Mr. Guindot, the district’s teaching and learning representative, told the board that state guidance defines chronic absenteeism as missing 10% of the school year and that Parkrose’s district rate was roughly 47% last year. He stressed that absenteeism is linked to reading and graduation outcomes and showed local breakdowns by grade and by race/ethnicity.

Mr. Guindot outlined common root causes in the district: family responsibilities, work, transportation, housing and food insecurity, negative school experiences, bias in discipline and undiagnosed disabilities. He said the district uses a red/yellow/green system to monitor risk and urged multi‑tiered responses that focus on connection rather than punishment.

Student representatives described real‑world barriers: one student said they work weekends and sometimes “miss days of school” because of packed schedules; others cited burnout and the need for a supportive adult who can help students catch up without punitive consequences. "Sometimes we need someone that's not gonna slap you on the wrist for not being there, but someone that will help you catch back up," a student said.

Board members discussed schedule changes (block days, advisory/SEL time), creating quiet work spaces and expanding outreach to families. Members emphasized non‑punitive engagement strategies and preparation for longer postsecondary class blocks. The presentation concluded with a commitment to follow up on specific interventions and student‑driven ideas.