The Attendance USA Connection

The Hidden Link Between Chronic Absenteeism and Long-Term Life Outcomes with Dr. Judith Rhodes

In this episode, we dive into innovative strategies for addressing chronic absenteeism and fostering student engagement. Featuring Dr. Judith Rhodes, an esteemed researcher and leader in educational assessment, the conversation explores how partnerships between universities and K-12 schools can transform attendance and achievement.

The Power of Relationships with Salvatore Birardi

In this episode, we explore the critical importance of attendance in schools, strategies for increasing student engagement, and the impactful role of community and family support. Our guest, Sal Birardi, shares his experiences from his 22 years in education and his work supporting over 25,000 students in New York City, emphasizing that attendance is a collective responsibility. Resources Attendance USA - https://attendanceusa.org [https://attendanceusa.org] New York City Public Schools - https://www.schools.nyc.gov [https://www.schools.nyc.gov] Success Mentors Program - https://attendanceusa.org/success-mentors [https://attendanceusa.org/success-mentors] Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) - https://taschool.org [https://taschool.org]

School Avoidance with Jayne Demsky

In this episode, we explore the complex issue of school avoidance, its psychosocial roots, and effective strategies for families, educators, and communities to work together to support students. We dive into research findings, real-life success stories, and resources that can help turn things around for children struggling with attendance. About Our Guest: Jayne Demsky Jayne Demsky is a passionate advocate for students facing school avoidance challenges. As the founder of the School Avoidance Alliance, she has dedicated her career to supporting families and educators in understanding and addressing the complexities of school avoidance. With a wealth of personal experience and professional expertise, Jayne provides invaluable insights and practical strategies to help students re-engage with their education. Key Topics: * Understanding the difference between barriers and avoidance in student absenteeism * The importance of school culture and creating safe, supportive environments * The role of family advocacy and community engagement in tackling school avoidance * Legal considerations: 504 plans and IEPs for students with mental health challenges * Practical interventions: building relationships, modifying schedules, and peer support * The impact of trained frontline staff and educator awareness on student success * How the School Avoidance Alliance supports families and schools with targeted courses and community * Success stories of families overcoming avoidance through collaborative efforts * Upcoming Attendance USA Research to Practice Summit for research-driven strategies Resources & Links: * https://nprinc.com/chronic-absenteeism-strategies-for-addressing-school-refusal-and-avoidance/ [https://nprinc.com/chronic-absenteeism-strategies-for-addressing-school-refusal-and-avoidance/] * https://a.co/d/059FwCWO [https://a.co/d/059FwCWO] * Attendance USA [https://attendanceusa.org/] Connect with Jayne Demsky: * Website: schoolavoidance.org [http://schoolavoidance.org] Join us for the upcoming Research to Practice Summit: * Date: June 5-7, 2026 * Location: Louisiana State University * Email: shelneka@attendanceusa.org [shalneka@attendanceusa.org]

Stronger Together: Community and School Partnerships that Work with Jansen Azarias-Suzumoto

In this episode, we dive deep into innovative strategies for increasing student attendance, addressing systemic barriers, and building strong community partnerships. Jansen Azarias-Suzumoto shares his inspiring journey from childhood challenges to leading impactful community work in Arizona, emphasizing empathetic accountability and collaborative solutions.

Family Engagement and Stability with Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty

In this episode of the Attendance USA Connection podcast, hosts Shelneka Marsalone and Sharon Bradley welcome Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, a leading researcher in school attendance and family stability. The conversation explores the importance of parent engagement in increasing school attendance, the impact of family stability on student success, and practical strategies for schools to better engage parents. Dr. Gentle-Genitty shares her origin story and research focus, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to addressing absenteeism. The episode concludes with actionable insights for educators and parents to work together in supporting students' attendance and overall well-being. Resources: Perception of School Social Bonding (PSSB) Instrument: Structural and Concurrent Validity | Contemporary School Psychology https://share.google/QVNZ0uCTJYc4z11M0 [https://share.google/QVNZ0uCTJYc4z11M0]