Latest Our Blog

School bus on street

What We’re Learning From Our Investments in Reducing Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism remains one of the most pressing challenges facing schools today, but the field lacks rigorous evidence on the key drivers and potential solutions to reduce it. Here, we share early lessons from five studies focused on generating actionable insights to boost attendance from Pre-K through high school.

Two children reading book

Perspectives: The Science of Reading and Play Go Hand-in-Hand. Schools Must Make It Happen

As districts embrace the science of reading to improve literacy outcomes, there’s a real risk of squeezing out something just as vital to early learning: play. Meghan McCormick and Carly Roberts make the case that play doesn’t compete with explicit reading instruction. Instead, it helps build the very skills kids need to become strong readers in the first place.

Two boys playing outside

Perspectives: Out-of-School Programs’ Role in Reversing Chronic Absenteeism

As states and districts work to combat chronic absenteeism in K-12, out-of-school-time providers are essential partners in boosting student engagement and attendance. Emma Banay, Hedy Chang, and Jodi Grant underscore the proven impact of high-quality programs on reducing school-day absences and urge decision-makers to prioritize them as more than an “expendable extra.”

Teacher works with preschool students

Spotlight On Evidence: The Role of Curricula and Professional Learning in Improving Pre-K Quality

There’s broad scientific agreement that Pre-K programs can have positive impacts on children’s learning and development, but simply providing access to Pre-K isn’t enough—the quality of the program and the teaching matter. Meghan McCormick examines what we know about the important role high-quality instructional materials and professional learning play in strengthening Pre-K programs.