Now that the students return to school, we must ensure good Attendance for student growth and learning. Research shows that students with poor Attendance in the first month of school are more likely to experience chronic absences. Chronic absence is defined as missing more than 10 percent (or 18 days for a 180-day school year!) of school days during the school year. This can be as little as 2 school days a month.
Attendance Works is a national and state initiative that promotes better policy and practice around school attendance. They have developed free tools (including a toolkit) and resources for schools and community partners to improve school attendance and identify students with poor Attendance. To help encourage students to attend class every day, the toolkit connects students to personal relationships and positive support. Students are more likely to attend school if they have formed positive relationships with caring adults and fellow students.
The toolkit provides a step-by-step guide to a data-driven strategy known as PEOPLE—Priority Early Outreach through Positive Linkages and Engagement. It outlines steps to apply PEOPLE. There are five steps, which include where to focus on priority, how to establish a team, accessing students, connecting with families, and reflecting in a positive way. Check out this Attendance Works infographic for more statistics and information about chronic absenteeism.
By accessing the data, Attendance Works has identified students that are most at risk. This allows for communication with parents and community partners to improve Attendance. Consider the power of data analysis. It will enable the prediction of trends, which can help make a positive impact.
Transform Consulting Group works to stay current with the latest research and best practices around “what works” to share with clients and apply in the field. Does your organization need to review its current programming and ensure its alignment with research-based practices? Contact Transform Consulting Group today to get started!