This session explores how districts are rethinking chronic absenteeism through a whole-child, MTSS-aligned approach that prioritizes student connection, wellness, and belonging. Rather than treating attendance as a compliance issue, district leaders will share how they are integrating student services, SEL, family engagement, behavioral health supports, and data-informed practices to remove barriers that prevent students from fully engaging in school.

Through real-world district examples and practical implementation strategies, presenters will highlight how cross-functional leadership teams are building systems that reconnect students to learning while improving school climate, engagement, and outcomes. Participants will engage in discussion and reflection focused on scalable practices that can be adapted across diverse school communities.

Aligned with the 2027 Every Child Counts Symposium theme, “Desert Bloom: Leading Systems in Challenging Landscapes,” this session emphasizes how resilient, student-centered systems can help every child thrive, even amid increasing social, emotional, and educational challenges.

Key Audience Takeaways:
• Identify systems-level factors contributing to chronic absenteeism and student disengagement.
• Apply MTSS-aligned strategies that strengthen student belonging, wellness, and family partnership.
• Leave with practical tools and district-tested approaches that can be implemented immediately to improve attendance and student outcomes.