Improve Attendance!

In the post-pandemic era, many schools face major challenges with chronic absenteeism. But this ASCD Blog article suggests that using strategies that teach, reinforce, and support students in meeting attendance goals can lead to a significant transformational change.

Of course, changing the culture of attendance in a school requires a collaborative effort among staff, families, and the broader community. But making the shift from a punitive to a proactive approach can greatly reduce chronic absences.

Note: A recent poll found that many parents simply don’t understand the seriousness of chronic absences. That highlights both the problem and the solutions suggested above.

More from Hamish Brewer

Students who have taken my “Principles of Curriculum” course (EDLD 6313) are familiar with the work of veteran principal, Hamish Brewer. He brings a unique perspective to the job of an educational leader, and he serves as a reminder that our actions as educators often play a pivotal role in students’ lives.

Here is an overview of his keynote address at the 2024 ASCD conference.