Improving student attendance requires more than a single solution—it takes collaboration, strategy, and community support.
Recently, the Ingham ISD Instructional Services and Pupil Accounting teams brought together educators from across the service area to focus on one of education’s most pressing challenges: chronic absenteeism.
The session featured Dr. Jeremy Singer, author of Rethinking Chronic Absenteeism: Why Schools Can’t Do It Alone. Drawing from his work with Detroit Community Schools, Dr. Singer shared research and practical strategies designed to help schools better understand the causes of absenteeism and build systems that support consistent student engagement.
Throughout the session, educators explored how attendance challenges are often connected to a range of factors—including family circumstances, community conditions, and barriers that extend beyond the classroom. Dr. Singer emphasized that improving attendance requires a collaborative approach that engages schools, families, and community partners.
Following the presentation, participants worked in countywide groups to examine key areas of focus, including Attendance and Truancy Processes, Family and Community Engagement, and Tiered Attendance Support Systems.
These discussions allowed educators to share ideas, reflect on current practices, and identify strategies that can be implemented within their own districts.
By bringing together voices from across the region, the event created space for meaningful collaboration and collective problem-solving—strengthening the shared commitment to helping students stay engaged in school.
Because when students are present, they have greater opportunities to learn, connect, and succeed.
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