Franklin Public Schools reports 9 percent chronic absenteeism decrease despite COVID challenges

Chronic absenteeism remains a pressing issue for Franklin Public Schools, as highlighted in the recent school board meeting. The district reported a slight improvement, with 9.07% of students missing more than 10% of school days in the 2024-2025 school year, down from 10% the previous year. This statistic encompasses both excused and unexcused absences, making it crucial for understanding the broader context of student attendance.

The discussion emphasized the distinction between chronic absenteeism and habitual truancy, clarifying that the former includes all types of absences, whether due to illness, family vacations, or skipping school. This nuanced understanding is vital for addressing the root causes of absenteeism, particularly among vulnerable student groups such as those receiving free and reduced lunch, special education, and English learners, who experience higher rates of absenteeism at around 12%.

To tackle these challenges, the district plans to engage in "empathy interviewing" with students and families to uncover the reasons behind their absences. This proactive approach aims to identify barriers to attendance, whether they are medical or otherwise, and to develop strategies to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.

In addition to attendance, the meeting also reported a significant reduction in behavior referrals, with a decrease of approximately 350 incidents from the previous year. This decline is expected to correlate with fewer suspensions and expulsions, indicating a positive shift in school discipline practices. The district is also utilizing the Sabers behavior screener for grades 3 to 8, which has fostered better communication between parents and teachers regarding student behavior and well-being.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving student attendance and behavior, recognizing the importance of addressing these issues to enhance educational outcomes for all students. As the school year progresses, the district will continue to monitor these metrics and implement strategies to support student success.