By examining health-related challenges, social barriers, and household logistics — from mental health and housing instability to transportation gaps — this post highlights how districts can use student well-being data and class-level attendance patterns to address root causes, remove systemic hurdles, and better support families.
The second post explores how the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) is moving beyond traditional data tracking and punitive measures toward proactive, community-centered solutions.
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.
Named after the first Black female firefighter in Lexington who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, Brenda Cowan Elementary was founded on the principles of service and community.
As a school located in the heart of the community, family involvement and partnership have long been important to our culture and identity.
At McCracken County High School, we are in the process of completely overhauling the way students move through our school.
Northern Elementary (Fayette County) began its work to pursue the Prichard Committee’s Family Friendly School Certificate in Fall 2024. This work was initiated by our Local Leadership Team, composed of teachers, administrators, community partners, and grant coordinators.
When the opportunity arose to participate in the Family Friendly Schools initiative, it felt like a natural extension of the work we were already committed to doing
When our school began the journey toward earning the Family Friendly School Certification, I took the lead in guiding our efforts and building a team committed to meaningful family engagement.
Jessica Talley, an English language arts teacher at Mt. Washington Middle School in Bullitt County, writes about vibrant learning experiences.