Chronic absenteeism: what is it, how do we fix it, and who can help? In a two-part special field recording from the 2nd annual Georgia DOE Attendance Summit "Georgia Goes to School," we examine contributing factors to the attendance struggle from various agencies' vantage points. Representatives from UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government, DBHDD, and GaDOE School Nutrition illuminate their organization's role in supporting student attendance in Part 1.

Scanning the horizon for a way to help educators work hard, and work well? Look no further than College Park Elementary, where care, connection among colleagues, and coordinated initiatives uplift educator wellness. Principal Maisha Otway and Wellness Ambassador Jetanne Dugger share the positive impacts of Georgia DOE and local RESA "Wellness in Action" sessions, noting that prioritized educator wellness keeps teachers and staff fit for the challenge of educating students across the 180-day school year.

What can educators and districts do to improve their absentee data? Hear Forsyth County Schools' successful vertical model for getting students into the school building, "safe, connected, and thriving." Forsyth's Director of Student Support Sarah Von Esh and Little Mill Middle School Principal Molly Lavin reveal the beautiful choreography between schools and the district that's making big strides for student attendance.