We can’t accept the status quo. Missing class is often the first phase in a downward spiral for too many students.

Showing up is everything — and it’s up to all of us to make it possible.

Read more: www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/story/opinio...

But our state took a step backward when it dropped chronic absenteeism as an indicator of school success. We cannot blind ourselves to this crisis.

Policymakers have begun to embrace this relationship-based approach, with the City investing in FairFuturesNY to bring mentoring to youth in foster care. NYC DOE is bringing parents into the process to help other families access city resources.

When students feel connected — to teachers, mentors, peers, or the curriculum — they return to school.

Our counseling, after-school support, and mentoring help rebuild those bonds. This year, The Children’s Village celebrated the high school graduation of 136 students.

Watch here: www.humanservicesaction.org/mayoralchat