The Attendance USA Connection

Attendance USA Connection Live from Research to Practice Summit with Principal Rahh

Reimagining Education and Student Engagement: Insights from Principal Rahh and Knowlej This episode takes you inside the 2026 Research to Practice Summit hosted at LSU, featuring Principal Rahh, founder of Knowlej, and innovative approaches to increasing student attendance through incentives and culturally responsive strategies. Discover how schools are pioneering new systems to engage students, families, and communities in meaningful ways. In this episode: * The role of incentives in re-engaging students and staff * How Alpha Schools utilize behavior motivation tools effectively * Policy debates around paying students for attendance * The importance of building trust and restorative practices in schools * Strategies to combat the "new absenteeism" quadrants * How long-term rewards like tuition incentives motivate sustained engagement * The impact of AI, economic shifts, and future workforce skills * Foundations for creating inclusive, culturally responsive educational environments * Success stories from DC Public Schools and LAUSD reducing absenteeism * The importance of proactive prevention over reaction in addressing attendance issues Connect with Principal Rahh: * LinkedIn [https://linkedin.com/in/principalra] Note: Emphasizing proactive, culturally responsive strategies combined with financial incentives to build trust and improve attendance is essential for future-ready education systems.

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.