Connecting Communities, a Beyond The Blog podcast created by The Patterson Foundation and the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, brings you insights and inspiration on early childhood literacy across the Suncoast region. Explore how communities come together to support children and families through five pillars: School Readiness, Attendance, Summer Learning, Family Engagement, and Health Determinants.
In this episode, host Leah Verier-Dunn has an in-depth conversation with Hedy Chang, Executive Director of Attendance Works. Together, they unpack the growing challenge of chronic absenteeism. How it has become such a widespread issue across the country and why it matters for children, families, and schools alike. Hedy also shares practical strategies, proven approaches, and valuable resources that parents, caregivers, and educational professionals can use to help students stay on track and thrive.
Timestamps
00:32 – Introduction
01:32 – Hedy explains what Attendance Works does
06:09 – Hedy talks about the free family-facing resources Attendance Works offers
06:46 – Hedy shares how COVID shifted parents’ perspectives on sending their kids to school
O8:17 – Hedy discusses how to determine when to stay home from school
12:19 – Hedy shares the causes of chronic absence
17:37 – Hedy talks about the misconceptions of chronic absence
25:56 – Hedy discusses people’s fears around school safety contributing to chronic absence
29:31 – Hedy shares the importance of “Help Banks” to get kids to school on time
33:37 – Hedy provides insights on how to communicate with families about attendance
35:59 – Big Picture Small Steps
36:13 – Hedy shares her long-term goals on attendance
38:15 – Hedy explains what it means to show up for R.E.A.L.
39:03 – Hedy provides more tips to help families reduce chronic absence
43:54 – Connecting with Kids
Links to Learn More
Want to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog!
