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Rewind: KSDE Insight Podcast - Missing More Than Class: What Parents Need to Know About Chronic Absenteeism

With the 2025-26 academic year off and running, it’s important to make sure parents understand the impact regular school attendance has on student success. 

Schools are encouraged to share with parents July’s KSDE Insight Podcast - Missing More Than Class: What Parents Need to Know About Chronic Absenteeism on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

Aimed specifically at parents, this conversation addresses common reasons for frequent absences—ranging from health and anxiety to transportation and disengagement—and why missing even a few days a month can add up to serious academic and social consequences.   

School administrators shared with Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson what has worked in their districts to decrease chronic absenteeism and increase student outcomes:  

  • Justin Coffey, principal, Ulysses High School, Ulysses USD 214  
  • Shanna Rector, deputy superintendent, Salina USD 305  
  • Jenn Reed, assistant superintendent for learning services, Haysville USD 261  

   

This conversation focuses on how families can identify barriers, work with schools, and create routines that support regular attendance. Because when students miss school, they miss opportunities and together, we can help them stay on track.  

Be sure to rate, subscribe and spread the word about this informative podcast.     

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Posted: Aug 28, 2025,
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