This conversation explores the critical issue of chronic absenteeism in schools, highlighting the findings from a comprehensive report by SchoolStatus. The discussion covers the importance of attendance, the data methodology used, and the patterns observed in absenteeism across different grade levels. Dr. Kara Stern emphasizes the significance of early interventions, effective communication strategies with families, and the need for a systematic approach to improve student attendance. The conversation also addresses the unique challenges faced by middle school students and the role of parents in identifying early warning signs of disengagement.

Report Link: https://www.schoolstatus.com/wp-content/uploads/SchoolStatus_2024-2025-Attendance-Trends-Report.pdf

In this episode, Scott Titsworth and Shawn Young discuss the critical role of student engagement in education, exploring Shawn's journey from physics teacher to Chief Platform Officer at HMH. They delve into the importance of gamification in the classroom, the integration of AI in education, and the need for meaningful learning experiences. The conversation highlights the impact of great teachers, the onboarding process for new educational platforms, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI in education. They conclude with thoughts on the future of teaching and the importance of building relationships in the classroom.

https://youtu.be/wfipL8BRZO4