The inaugural series explores one of Kentucky’s most pressing educational challenges — chronic absenteeism. Through research, data, and real-world examples, the series examines how attendance has changed since the pandemic, the factors driving chronic absenteeism, and the statewide efforts, partnerships, and policy changes helping schools reconnect students and improve attendance outcomes.

The fourth post, “Beyond the Notice – Finding the Missing Piece Through Family and Community Partnerships,” features guest contributor Marsha VanHook, program specialist with the Kentucky Department of Education. This post addresses the limitations of automated absence notices and explores how schools can move from mere family involvement to authentic family engagement. By recognizing age-specific attendance barriers and leveraging state tools—such as the “Kentucky Family and School Partnership Guide and the Family Engagement Digital Playbook” — districts can build collaborative, community-wide partnerships that support the whole student. Read more on the KDE Research Blog.