This 30-minute public television program, produced by Regional Educational Laboratory (REL) Midwest, explores factors that influence chronic absenteeism and features strategies to strengthen engagement and improve attendance. The program highlights the experiences of students and educators at Ralph H. Metcalfe Community Academy and Carver Military Academy in Chicago Public Schools.
The documentary explores the factors that influence chronic absenteeism, highlights the benefits students gain from regular attendance, and features strategies to strengthen engagement and improve attendance. Promising strategies include school teams using data to inform decision-making, building authentic relationships, and ensuring positive conditions for learning. Expert commentary throughout the documentary is provided by Cecelia Leong (Attendance Works) and Jenny Scala (American Institutes for Research).
