Chronic absenteeism was a topic at the recent Washington School Board meeting. Superintendent Willie Stone gave the numbers in a report at their January 8th meeting, “We’re at 12% currently, at this time last year we were at 18%, so we are way ahead of the game, and we’re excited about that. We feel that having students in the building and on task is helping us, and will help us greatly help students achieve more.” Senate File 2435 was signed into law on May 9, 2024 with an effective date of July 1, 2024 enhanced measures related to student attendance at all grade levels. The law details public school attendance requirements, and requires specific school actions based on a student’s rate of non-exempt absences. Districts had to adopt an attendance policy and collaborate with county attorneys when necessary, conduct school engagement meetings, and work with county truancy officers. The school board, and educators will be reminding parents throughout the school year about the importance of attendance.