Evidence-Based Strategies for Improving Student Attendance

This guide presents evidence-based strategies aimed at addressing chronic absenteeism in K-12 education. It outlines the significant challenges faced by educators and district leaders, particularly as chronic absenteeism rates have increased. The document identifies two primary approaches: notification-based interventions and mentoring-based interventions. Notification-based interventions involve communicating attendance data to families, while mentoring-based interventions focus on building connections with disengaged students. The toolkit includes four specific strategies designed to engage families and improve student attendance, including Nudge Letters, Attendance Postcards, Attendance Groups, and Check and Connect. Each strategy is detailed with implementation instructions, target developmental stages, and recommended use within Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). The guide emphasizes the importance of personalized communication and positive reinforcement in fostering student engagement and attendance, providing educators with actionable steps to support students effectively.