Spotlight on PLN Progress with Austin ISD

Spotlight on PLN Progress with Austin ISD

Thanks to Austin ISD for joining our Attendance Peer Learning Network (PLN) 18 months ago. The Attendance and Math PLNs met in May to share success stories and strong strategies. We’re excited about the great work happening in Austin ISD, especially on three campuses working hard to improve attendance. The Attendance PLN runs through December 2025, and we’re proud of the progress so far.  

CAMPUS GOALS AND WINS 

Austin High School 

Goal: Lower chronic absenteeism for students from low-income homes from 46.6% to 25% by February 2026. 

Progress: They’ve already passed their goal—now at 23%! 

Paredes Middle School 

Goal 1: Raise overall attendance by 1.5% by February 2026. 

Progress: Just 0.29% away! 

Goal 2: Raise attendance for Black students from 89.59% in 6th grade to 93% in 8th grade. 

Progress: They are tracking three years of data to meet this goal. 

Blazier Elementary School 

Goal: Raise attendance for students from low-income homes from 91.5% to 94.7% by February 2026. 

Progress: They’re on track at 93.06%. 

WHAT’S WORKING? 

Campuses are seeing results by:  

• Creating strong systems to track attendance. 

• Offering rewards and fun events like dances and store incentives. 

• Focusing on students who miss the most school with clear goals and support. 

• Talking about attendance in support meetings and assigning team leads. 

• Holding summer camps and recovery sessions. 

• Meeting with parents and checking in often. 

At the district level, Austin ISD has improved attendance contracts to focus on root causes and booster professional learning opportunities. Next steps:  

• More alignment of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) with attendance plans and mental health help. 

• Staff training with a full-day session at the start of the year. 

• Stronger connections through regular campus check-ins. 

We’re proud of this teamwork and can’t wait to see what comes next!