LA County Enacts Plan to Boost School Attendance Ahead of New Academic Year

With the new school year underway in some area schools, the Los Angeles County Office of Education began a coordinated effort Wednesday to boost student attendance and help children thrive in school.

During a news conference at Madison Elementary School in Pomona, County Superintendent of Schools Debra Duardo said the campaign will include a new toolkit to build awareness on the importance of attendance. Additionally, an updated student playbook will be circulated, described as a comprehensive roadmap to address the persistent challenge of chronic absenteeism in schools.

According to the Office of Education, both are extensive resources for districts and schools to promote consistent attendance throughout the year, based on data findings and evidence-backed strategies.

The toolkit includes customizable communication materials, data tracking tips, strategies for engaging families and resources to connect students with health and social services.

“Every day in school matters,” Duardo said. “Ensuring students are present is a community-wide effort. It takes schools, families, health providers and community partners working together to remove barriers and create the conditions for every child to succeed.”

Barbara Ferrer, director of the county Department of Public Health, joined the event alongside Pomona Unified School District Superintendent Darren Knowles and South Whittier School District Superintendent Gary Gonzales. They echoed Durado’s message, adding that the issue of chronic absenteeism is a much larger problem that can impact students’ health and future.

Ferrer emphasized that missing school is “rarely about lack of motivation” and can often be attributed to challenges children should not face alone.

“This includes unstable housing, lack of transportation, untreated asthma, caretaking responsibilities, immigration trauma or the absence of a safe, stable adult in their life,” Ferrer said.

“When students show up, they’re not just learning math or reading. They’re building relationships, developing confidence and setting the foundation for a healthy future. We pledge to keep working together to make sure every student not only has a seat in the classroom but the support they need to stay and succeed at school,” she added.