The ongoing struggle against student absenteeism has become a key focus for numerous school districts in recent years. As the new academic year unfolds, many are ramping up their initiatives to improve attendance. While it’s encouraging to note a drop in absenteeism rates across the nation from their previous highs, the reality remains that rates are still significantly elevated compared to a decade prior. This ongoing crisis carries severe academic and financial ramifications for these educational institutions.
Frequent absences hinder students’ ability to keep pace with their lessons, which jeopardizes their early literacy skills and subsequently affects their chances of graduating high school. Moreover, constant turnover disrupts the educational environment, adversely impacting even those students who attend regularly. As teachers grapple with these challenges, schools in some regions may find themselves facing financial penalties for high chronic absenteeism, which negatively influences their standing in state accountability metrics.
This webinar will explore:
- The magnitude of the attendance issue across various states and districts, supported by current data.
- The tangible and intangible financial repercussions of high absenteeism rates for school systems.
- Innovative yet effective strategies that some districts have implemented to enhance student engagement and attendance.
Featured Speakers
Dr. Robert Balfanz
Distinguished Professor, Johns Hopkins University School of Education
Dr. Robert Balfanz is a distinguished professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Education, where he directs the Center for Social Organization of Schools and the Everyone Graduates Center. His research translates into practical strategies for enhancing school performance and reforming education. Currently, he leads the GRAD Partnership, a collective endeavor involving non-profits and school districts aimed at standardizing effective student support systems. Furthermore, he collaborates with the Partnership for Student Success, a coalition comprising over 200 non-profits, school districts, and 70 higher education institutions, focusing on expanding vital evidence-based student support systems nationwide.
Moderators
Evie Blad
Reporter, Education Week
As a reporter for Education Week, Evie Blad addresses critical issues affecting school and district leaders, including policy matters, child welfare, civil rights, and safety in schools. Before joining Education Week in 2013, she reported for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, where her coverage spanned K-12 education, higher education, and healthcare.
For all webinars hosted by Education Week post-August 1, 2019, attendees who participate for at least 53 minutes can receive Certificates of Completion. Educators can download a PDF verifying one hour of Professional Development credit. As is standard with professional development hours, Education Week encourages educators to confirm that the webinar content fulfills professional development requirements with their supervising authorities prior to attending.
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