More Essential Than Ever: States Taking Action to Improve Attendance, by Attendance Works.

Written especially for state policy makers, administrators and advocates, this brief is our fifth annual examination of state attendance data, policy, and practices. It is based on a review of websites for all 50 states and Washington, D.C., as well as a survey completed by 49 states and Washington, D.C. 

State leaders, especially in state education agencies (SEAs), are especially well-positioned to prompt and support action to improve attendance. While states have always been critical, we expect them to have even more autonomy in education than they have had in decades. States can take action through a variety of mechanisms (e.g., regulations, administrative actions, guidance, board policy, funding and legislation).

The brief showcases success stories from Colorado and Virginia, where state leadership is putting policies and practices in place that are making a measurable difference in ensuring students are in school.

As states continue to develop and update their attendance policy and practice, the brief offers 14 recommendations related to public reporting, comparable data and taking action.