In the weeks before and after a holiday break from school, absences spike.

Consider sending letters home to families and caregivers before the Thanksgiving and Winter breaks to express your gratitude for their partnership. Engage students by planning an inviting activity for the day before break begins and/or on the day students are expected to return. See below for links to our updated resources.

This year’s absence numbers may be daunting. Reducing the high levels of chronic absence experienced over the past several years is possible, but it won't happen overnight. Success requires a continual focus on engagement, support and rebuilding of routines, especially for the students most adversely affected by the pandemic.

The good news is that there are numerous examples of schools and districts using effective practices – some adopted prior to the pandemic and others developed during – to re-engage families and students to address and overcome attendance barriers. Listen to one of the AAC webinars posted on our website, with the presentation slides and a discussion guide.

We’ve added two new individuals to our Attendance Works team: Inika Williams, Associate Director for Policy, and Gisela I. Ariza, Associate Director of Programs. Watch for our next newsletter to learn more about each.

Over the Thanksgiving break, I urge everyone to celebrate the extra work we’ve all done during the past few years and to find a moment for relaxation with friends and family.

With gratitude,

Hedy N. Chang

Founder and Executive Director