At the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, attendance is more than just a number—it is a key factor in ensuring that students are set up for success in school and in life. During the 2025-2026 school year, we are continuing to promote the importance of good school attendance with our campaign #ShowUpMPUSD.
This year, MPUSD’s recognition of Attendance Awareness Month carries special significance.
In 2024, the district received a $1.3 million grant through the Promoting Attendance through Collaboration and Compassionate Systems (PACCS) project. Funded from 2024–2027, this grant will allow MPUSD to expand programs that reduce chronic absenteeism, support student health needs, and strengthen partnerships with families.
What Is Chronic Absenteeism?
Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10 percent or more of school days. Typically, that translates to about 18 days per year, or roughly 2 days a month. Research shows that students can start falling behind even if they miss just one or two days every few weeks.
Why Attendance Matters
Research is clear: students who are in school consistently build stronger math, reading, and foundational skills, which directly impacts graduation rates, college completion, and future career success. Chronic absence—defined as missing 10% or more of the school year—can quickly put students at risk academically.
In 2021–22 following the COVID-19 global pandemic, approximately 28% of MPUSD students were chronically absent, slightly higher than the state average of 25%. Since then, the district has seen about a 16% decrease in chronic absenteeism among these groups of students: Asian, African American, Economically Disadvantaged (data not available for 2024-2025 school year), English Language Learner, Pacific Islander, Students with Disabilities, Homeless Youth, and White.
MPUSD’s Comprehensive Approach
The PACCS grant allows MPUSD to address the root causes of absenteeism through non-punitive, evidence-based strategies. Key initiatives include:
- Hiring Attendance Intervention Specialists who will work directly with families, conduct home visits, and provide personalized support.
- Administrators and school leaders are leveraging data from EveryDay Labs to identify at-risk students and send targeted, supportive communications to families.
- Increasing collaboration among staff and community partners to share best practices and create stronger support systems for students.
Working Together to Build a Culture of Attendance
Attendance Awareness Month serves as a reminder that everyone—schools, families, and the community—has a role in ensuring students are in school, engaged, and ready to learn. With the additional resources provided through the grant, MPUSD is better positioned to support families and break down barriers that may prevent students from attending regularly.
As MPUSD continues its work throughout September and beyond, the focus remains on connection, compassion, and collaboration—because every day in school counts.