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From Attendance to Belonging: Reimagining Schools as Community Hubs

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W311GH

Innovator Talk
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Session description

Absenteeism is rising, but at its core, it’s about belonging. This session brings together a senior researcher, a superintendent, and an edtech leader to explore how schools can become community hubs. Learn how inclusive digital engagement fosters trust, strengthens families’ connections, and reduces chronic absenteeism at scale.

Outline

Introduction (5 min): Reframing absenteeism as a belonging problem.
Belonging and Community hubs (15 min): Connecting belonging, engagement, and improved attendance.
District Case Study (20 min): Dive into how Moline-Coal Valley is tackling chronic absenteeism by simplifying family communication, reducing parental overwhelm, and building stronger school–family partnerships.
EdTech Perspective (10 min): Dig into how digital tools create community-first schools that bridge divides and scale engagement.
Takeaways (5 min): Actionable strategies for schools and districts to strengthen belonging and attendance.
Q&A (5 min): Audience discussion and reflection

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Outcomes

After this session, participants will be able to:
1. Explain how belonging influences attendance and student engagement.
2. Identify district-level strategies that foster inclusive school–family communities.
3. Apply research-backed insights on attendance and belonging.
4. Reimagine schools as hubs that cultivate community connection and reduce absenteeism.

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Supporting research

https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/product/chronic-absenteeism-community-schools-report

https://crane.osu.edu/our-work/rebuilding-connections-post-covid-the-importance-of-school-belonging-for-addressing-absenteeism/

https://harmony-academy.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Harmony-and-Belonging-as-a-Solution-to-Chronic-Absenteeism.pdf

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Presenters

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Head of Learning Programs
Ed Farm
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Deputy Superintendent
Moline-Coal Valley CUSD 40
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Head of Growth & Partnerships
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Senior Vice President
Whiteboard Advisors

Session specifications

Topic:

Classroom Culture and Management

Grade level:

6-12

Audience:

District-Level Leadership, Teacher

Attendee devices:

Devices not needed

ISTE Standards:

For Coaches: Change Agent
For Education Leaders: Equity and Citizenship Advocate
For Educators: Collaborator

Transformational Learning Principles:

Cultivate Belonging, Ensure Opportunity

Disclosure:

The submitter of this session has been supported by a company whose product is being included in the session

Influencer Disclosure:

This session includes a presenter that indicated a “material connection” to a brand that includes a personal, family or employment relationship, or a financial relationship. See individual speaker menu for disclosure information.