Supporting Student Attendance: A Comprehensive Approach
Written by: Connie Poston
Attendance is a crucial factor in student success, and those who work in student support positions (school counselors, social workers, etc.) are in a unique position to support students and families in overcoming attendance challenges. Consistent attendance is directly linked to academic achievement, social-emotional development, and not only long-term educational outcomes but also long-term employment success. However, many students face barriers that prevent them from attending school regularly. By understanding the root causes of absenteeism and implementing strategies that engage families, we can play a pivotal role in promoting a culture of attendance. To truly make an impact on chronic attendance concerns we have to get to the WHY – THE ROOT CAUSE.
“To truly make an impact on chronic attendance concerns we have to get to the WHY.”
Understanding the Barriers to Attendance
The reasons behind chronic absenteeism are complex and multifaceted. According to AttendanceWorks.Org, these barriers can be categorized into three main types:
- Myths and Lack of Understanding: Some students and families may not fully understand the importance of regular attendance, believing that missing a few days won’t significantly impact academic progress. When in reality, missing even a few days can put a student behind both academically and socially.
- Barriers: These include health issues, transportation challenges, and family responsibilities, such as caring for siblings or working to support the family.
- Disengagement: Students who feel disconnected from their school environment or struggle academically are more likely to miss school.
Strategies for Supporting Attendance
School staff can implement a range of strategies that support both students and families:
1. Build Relationships with Families:
- Establish strong, trusting relationships with families to create a partnership focused on student success. This involves regular communication and being proactive in reaching out to families when attendance issues arise.
- Establish a clear communication plan with families to educate them on the impact of chronic absenteeism and the resources available to support them.
2. Identify and Address Barriers:
- Work with students and families to identify specific barriers to attendance. For example, if food scarcity is a concern, ensure the student is receiving free breakfast and/or lunch.
- Collaborate with school nurses and community health providers to address any health-related barriers, ensuring students have access to necessary medical care.
3. Promote a Positive School Climate:
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive school environment where students feel valued and connected. This can be achieved through mentoring programs, peer support groups, and activities that promote school spirit.
- Encourage positive relationships between students and teachers, as students who feel supported by their teachers are more likely to attend school regularly.
4. Monitor and Celebrate Progress:
- Regularly track attendance data to identify patterns and intervene early when a student begins to show signs of chronic absenteeism.
- Celebrate improvements in attendance, both at the individual and school-wide level, to reinforce the importance of coming to school.
5. Engage the Community:
- Partner with community organizations to provide additional resources and support for families. This can include access to social services, mental health support, and after-school programs.
- Organize community events that bring families together and reinforce the importance of education and regular attendance.
“Supporting student attendance requires a collaborative approach that involves students, families, educators, and the community.”
Supporting student attendance requires a collaborative approach that involves students, families, educators, and the community. By addressing the root causes of absenteeism and implementing targeted strategies we can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
For more resources check out the following:
Resources
Please login or register to claim PGPs.
Alternatively, you may use the PGP Request Form if you prefer to not register an account.
