Small Changes, Big Impact: Solving the Attendance Crisis for Staff and Students

Monday, June 29, 2026 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM · 1 hr. (America/New_York)
Idea Lab
School Improvement and Reform

Information

​​Solving the attendance crisis takes small changes with a big impact. This session provides a practical playbook of actionable ideas: clear communication of data, weekly celebrations, Monday meetings, & attendance competitions. Learn how to motivate students and staff with meaningful recognition & a culture that says, "We love having you here."
Role Based Tracks
All LeadersLeaders - DistrictLeaders - School (Principals)Government/Non-profit
Grade Level
PK-12
Transformational Learning Principles
Cultivate Belonging
ISTE Standards
Education Leaders: Visionary Planner: Communicate effectively with stakeholders to gather input on the plan, celebrate successes and engage in a continuous improvement cycle.
Delivery/Output
In Person
Subject
Not applicable
Skill Level
Beginner
Outline
1. Introduction (5 minutes) Hook: Start with a brief, relatable story about the challenge of attendance. Problem/Solution: Frame the session as a shift from punitive measures to a culture of belonging. Session Goal: Explain that attendees will leave with a practical playbook of small, actionable ideas to improve attendance for both students and staff. Artifacts: Briefly introduce the five artifacts attendees will create during the session. 2. The Foundation: A Culture of Belonging (10 minutes) Core Principle: Emphasize the importance of the message, "We love having you here." Artifact Creation: Guide attendees to begin drafting their Tiered Attendance Plan, focusing on how their school can communicate this core message at different levels (whole school, small groups, individual). Discussion: Share and brainstorm ideas for fostering a welcoming environment. 3. Communication and Celebration (15 minutes) Why It Matters: Discuss how transparency and positive reinforcement drive engagement. Artifact Creation: Walk attendees through creating a Weekly Communication & Celebration Calendar. Provide examples of visual data displays and simple celebration ideas. Have attendees start their Staff and Student Recognition System, listing non-monetary and low-cost prizes. Activity: Pair-and-share activity where attendees share one idea for a weekly celebration. 4. Building Community: Meetings and Squads (15 minutes) Shared Responsibility: Explain how these structures empower students and staff. Artifact Creation: Guide the creation of a "Monday Morning Meeting" Blueprint. Provide a simple, repeatable agenda. Transition to the "Mixed Grade Level Squads" Implementation Guide. Have attendees outline the purpose and structure of these groups. Activity: Small group brainstorm on potential themes or activities for a "Monday Morning Meeting." 5. Putting It All Together & Next Steps (10 minutes) Review: Briefly recap the key concepts and the purpose of each artifact. Call to Action: Encourage attendees to select one small change to implement immediately. Q&A: Open the floor for questions and final thoughts. 6. Conclusion (5 minutes) Summary: Reiterate that a culture of belonging is the most effective tool for improving attendance.
Supporting research
Books used: Be 1% Better, The 55 Essentials, Orland 135 Chronic Absenteeism Guide, "Attendance Matters" resources
Audience
District-Level LeadershipSchool Level Leadership
Attendee Devices
Devices not needed

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