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District reports small attendance gains but flags chronic absenteeism and truancy referrals
Summary
Staff reported a modest improvement in chronic absenteeism with the district at just over 71 percent at the end of April, described state definitions and local interventions, and said about 25 students were referred to truancy court.
Staff presented the district's attendance data and described local interventions aimed at reducing chronic absenteeism.
A staff member explained the state definition used by the district: chronic absenteeism is defined as more than two absences a month (about 16 per year). The district reported it is "right over 71 percent" on the chronic-absence metric at the end of April and noted the statewide average is closer to 70 percent. Staff said they have used attendance teams, building principals, and local supports — including CEV meetings that engage families — to address barriers to regular attendance.
Board members asked about specific interventions and outreach; a staff member noted that of students referred to the next step, about 25 were sent through truancy court, and emphasized that court involvement helps in some cases but that much of the work is done locally through relationship-building and targeted supports. Another staff member highlighted a successful local example in which targeted incentives improved a student's attendance.
Board members discussed continuing efforts to improve daily attendance and possible data-driven strategies for the coming year.
