Kids can’t thrive if they’re not in school. But lately, getting them there every day has become more of a challenge. Chronic absenteeism has risen across the country since the pandemic, touching every kind of community. You’ve probably seen it: empty seats, families feeling disconnected, and a sense that the usual solutions just aren’t cutting it anymore.
But what if the key to turning things around isn’t another report or new policy? What if it starts with something more human, and more powerful: partnering with families in a deeper, more meaningful way?
Why attendance is slipping (and why it matters)
Nearly 1 in 4 students in the U.S. is currently considered chronically absent, meaning they’re missing at least 10% of the school year. That’s weeks of learning, gone.
And behind every missed day, there’s usually more going on: health challenges (both mental and physical), unreliable housing or transportation, family responsibilities or unpredictable work shifts, a sense of disconnect from school culture.
These are complex challenges, and schools can’t tackle them alone.
Family engagement: the missing piece
When families feel seen, supported, and connected to what’s happening at school, everything changes. This goes way beyond just showing up for back-to-school night: true family engagement means building relationships rooted in trust and partnership.
When families are engaged they’re more likely to prioritize daily attendance, catch and flag problems early, and reinforce the importance of school at home. More and more district leaders are recognizing that connection, not just compliance, is the path forward. And it’s making a real difference.
How ClassDojo helps bring families in
ClassDojo is designed to make meaningful family engagement simple and sustainable for every teacher, in every school, every day. Here’s how districts are using it to support stronger attendance through stronger relationships:
Create a school culture kids want to be part of
When students feel celebrated and connected, they’re more excited to show up. With ClassDojo, teachers can recognize effort and growth in real time, helping every child feel seen and motivated. Only 60% of students say they feel connected to people at school, and that number drops as kids get older. But feeling connected is one of the biggest drivers of attendance and academic success.
Keep families in the loop with two-way communication
Families want to help, but they need to know what’s going on. ClassDojo helps teachers share updates, check in on concerns, and celebrate progress in real time, in families’ preferred languages. Only 5% of parents recently polled said they were worried about school absences. When families understand why showing up matters, they’re more likely to act.
Make family involvement part of school life
Family engagement isn’t a “nice to have”—it’s essential. With ClassDojo, schools can invite families into the everyday life of the classroom, from Stories and celebrations to event reminders and more. When families feel included and valued, they’re more likely to support their child’s learning, and to show up, too.
When families and schools work together, kids win
Chronic absenteeism isn’t just a number. It’s about kids missing out on the relationships, routines, and opportunities that help them grow. The good news is that strong family engagement can help bring them back.
To learn how ClassDojo can support your district’s attendance and engagement goals, visit ClassDojo for Districts.
