Diane Knight
What measures would you propose to improve school attendance rates and reduce dropout rates?
Chronic absenteeism—defined as missing more than 10% of school days—is closely linked to increased dropout rates. Although Alpine School District has a slightly higher graduation rate than the state average, at just under 92%, there is always room for improvement. Addressing attendance must be a collaborative effort between the school, parents, and the student.
It is important to note that according to Utah State Law 53G-6-202, students between the ages of six and eighteen are required to attend school. Unfortunately, enforcement measures have become less stringent in recent years. A letter regarding excessive absences may be sent after 20 missed days, but this is no longer mandatory. Truancy school has been phased out, and students can no longer fail a class due to poor attendance. In 2023, the Utah Legislature passed SB65, which further reduced court involvement in truancy cases.
However, a one-size-fits-all policy will not solve the problem. Rigid attendance policies that fail to take individual circumstances into account often do more harm than good. Instead, we must develop thoughtful, flexible policies that allow educators and administrators to understand and address the unique causes behind chronic absenteeism.
Proposed Solutions
- Advocacy Programs: Skyridge High School has implemented a highly effective advocacy program. Advocates routinely monitor student grades and attendance, connecting students with timely interventions and support.
- Strengthening the Classroom Experience: Every student needs a strong relationship with at least one trusted adult at school. By ensuring classrooms are set up for success and staffed by well-supported educators, we can foster environments where students feel safe, seen, and heard. When students find value and connection in school, they are far more likely to attend regularly.
In the end, the classroom is the answer to almost every problem. A strong classroom culture, combined with well-structured advocacy and understanding of individual needs, will help us tackle absenteeism and reduce dropout rates in meaningful ways.
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