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RSU 40 credits consultant, aims to cut chronic absenteeism to 18% this year
Summary
Committee members said Count Me In consulting and Jess Anderson's technical assistance helped reduce chronic absenteeism from ~34% to 25% and set an 18% target; members linked improved attendance to increased specials and a proposed music teacher at the middle school.
Committee members highlighted the district's work to reduce chronic absenteeism with assistance from Count Me In and technical support from Jess Anderson. One committee member described Jess Anderson's spreadsheets and tracking tools as a key support: "We would not have improved attendance the way we have without her assistance."
A member recounted conference training the district attended and said the district has seen measurable improvement: "When we started the year before we two years ago was 34%. Last year we were down to 25% ... And this year our goal is 18%." The committee discussed continuing the contract and the source of funds: the consulting will be paid for with tier-three (titled) funds and reimbursed.
Members also linked attendance to programming: the committee said middle-school specials and engaging activities such as music help keep students in school and urged consideration of hiring a music teacher to support attendance and engagement at that level.
The committee noted the district will present its attendance work at an upcoming PBIS conference in Connecticut in May, and praised staff members who led the effort.
