Just a few years ago, the Cleveland school district realized it had a big problem when half of its 40,000 students were considered chronically absent. District leaders teamed up with community partners to tackle the problem in a citywide, public relations blitz. The slogan “Get to School, You Can Make It” was printed on billboards, t-shirts, and even grocery store bags. 69´«Ă˝ are given bus passes and uniforms, and staff members even call parents to encourage them to bring their children to school. A community college offers scholarships, local businesses check attendance before hiring, and the Cleveland Browns players visit schools regularly to reinforce the message. Over the last two years, Cleveland’s chronic absenteeism rate has dropped from 50 percent to 30 percent.
Cleveland 69´«Ă˝ Use Incentives, Parent Outreach to Reduce Chronic Absences
7:57
Student Achievement
Video
What the Dismal Nation's Report Card Means for 69´«Ă˝ and Math
The latest results of the National Assessment of Educational Progress show declines in students’ reading with some modest progress in math.
Student Well-Being
Video
Teachers, Try This: Combine Movement and Academics in the Classroom
A P.E. teacher shares some ideas for incorporating movement into the classroom for greater student engagement and more effective lessons.
Student Well-Being
Video
This School Keeps Kids Moving All Day. See How It Works
Inside a school where movement is woven into academics throughout the day.
Teaching
Video
Teachers, Try This: Incorporate Routine Student 'Vibe Checks'
A teacher's tips for mastering the art of digital organization and using student feedback to guide the classroom.
