Keeping attendance a priority and preparing for the “spring dip”

2/27/2023

As spring draws near, schools and districts can continue emphasizing the importance of daily attendance to try to avoid the “spring dip” – the time from spring break to the end of the year when many schools observe drops in daily attendance. Reinforcing positive messaging during this time can keep students in school and engaged in learning. Consider spreading school attendance messages communitywide by partnering with businesses, organizations and local government to encourage collective action. For example, Columbus City Schools is partnering with the Columbus Crew as part of the Stay in the Game! Network with a clap-in event in March to promote school attendance. Additional attendance messaging resources are on the Stay in the Game! Network website.

Beyond positive messaging, schools can plan activities and events that encourage students to attend class regularly. Event ideas include spirit weeks, shows and showcases, or field day. Spring Attendance Slump resources from Attendance Works provide ideas and considerations for implementing activities in the weeks before and after spring break, including a downloadable Sprinting through Spring planning calendar.

The Department’s Attendance Support webpage has resources to support regular attendance, including templates for positively communicating with families about attendance.

Contact the Office of Whole Child Supports at attendance@education.ohio.gov for questions.