Text messages and home visits help JCPS tackle the absenteeism crisis

The state's largest school district reports sending 4.5 million texts to families as part of a comprehensive attendance strategy.

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Jefferson County Public Schools announced some encouraging news this week: they've managed to bring down their chronic absenteeism rate by 5% over the past two years.

According to JCPS, the district's chronic absenteeism rate now stands at 33%, down from 38% two years ago. Superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood acknowledged that while one-third of students being chronically absent is still far too high, the trend is moving in the right direction.

So how did they do it? JCPS says its approach combines three main strategies: communication, support, and accountability.

On the communication front, the numbers are staggering. The district sent more than 4.5 million text messages to families about attendance during the last school year alone. They're also working to address practical barriers that keep kids out of school, like transportation issues and health concerns, by deploying dedicated teams to make phone calls and home visits.

The district has also partnered with organizations like Evolve502 and the Jefferson County Attorney's Office to expand its truancy diversion program, offering families resources and support as alternatives to legal action.

But there is a legal component when other interventions fail. Under Kentucky state law, schools must report guardians to the County Attorney when a child racks up 15 or more unexcused absences.

Jefferson County Attorney Mike O'Connell, speaking at a joint press conference with JCPS, emphasized that education is crucial for breaking cycles of poverty. His office focuses particularly on elementary students in grades K-5, recognizing that younger children need adult help to get to school consistently.

The County Attorney's office reviewed more than 4,000 referrals for K-5 students with excessive absences last year, JCPS reported. They sent warning letters to 1,236 families. In the most severe cases- 32 guardians whose children averaged 47 unexcused absences and who didn't respond to interventions- criminal charges have been filed.

Dr. Yearwood's message to parents was clear: "If you are struggling with attendance, please reach out. We are ready to help remove the obstacles."

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