What should a school leader do if a pattern of absenteeism arises among students?

Analyzing attendance data to identify trends and inform solutions is a critical step for a school leader facing a pattern of absenteeism among students. This approach allows the leader to gather quantitative information regarding attendance patterns, such as specific grades, times of year, or demographics that may be particularly affected. By using data analysis, the leader can pinpoint underlying issues contributing to the absenteeism, enabling targeted interventions rather than relying on assumptions or generalized measures.

This method lays the foundation for informed decisions, helping to develop strategies that address the root causes of the problem effectively. For instance, if data indicates a spike in absenteeism on certain days, the school might investigate further to understand if there are events causing students to stay home. Addressing the issue based on well-understood data helps create a more supportive and responsive school environment.

Other choices, while potentially useful, may not directly address the core of the problem. Requesting detailed attendance from teachers provides information but does not lead to solutions or deeper understanding. Conducting a survey to identify the causes could yield valuable insights, but it may take time and may not be as systematic or comprehensive as data analysis. Implementing a reward system for attendance can incentivize better attendance but may not tackle the underlying issues that are causing