September is Attendance Awareness Month, and Leander ISD is highlighting the importance of showing up. Good attendance is key to academic success, yet too many students are at risk because of chronic absence, defined as missing 10% of the school year, or about 18 days, for any reason.

Research shows the impact starts early:

  • In kindergarten and preschool, chronic absence predicts lower 3rd-grade reading scores.
  • By middle school, it becomes a warning sign for failing classes and dropping out of high school.

This September, LISD is committing resources to raise awareness, identify attendance gaps, and partner with the community to strengthen student engagement. Together, we can help by:

  • Building strong habits and a culture of regular attendance
  • Using data to spot attendance challenges
  • Addressing barriers that keep students from school

Why Attendance Matters for School Funding

Did you know? Texas is one of only six states that fund schools based on daily attendance rather than overall enrollment. For years, LISD’s Board of Trustees and district leaders have advocated for a system based on enrollment, which would more fairly provide resources for every student.

Because funding is tied to attendance, the impact is real:

  • Before COVID, LISD — and other districts across the state — averaged around 96% attendance
  • In recent years, that has dropped to the low 90s
  • Every 1% increase equals about $3 million in additional funding for our district

We recognize that illnesses and family challenges happen. When students are sick, keeping them home is the right choice. Our goal isn’t perfect attendance, but strong, consistent habits. This means being in school whenever possible.

LISD does not see students as dollar signs. Our goal in sharing this information is to peel back the curtain on how Texas funds public schools – and to highlight why regular attendance is critical. Because it’s what’s best for students, we’re committed to partnering with families to build strong attendance habits from the start.

🏁 Game On! District-Wide Attendance Competition

To make attendance fun, Leander ISD is teaming up with Dairy Queen for a friendly district-wide competition! Students at the winning schools will earn prizes for their efforts.

Here’s how it works:

  • Top Attendance of the Month: In September, one elementary, one middle, and one high school with the highest attendance rate will each win a grand prize
  • Weekly Winners: Each week, four campuses with the top attendance will be recognized. A school can only win once per month.

Follow your school and Leander ISD on Facebook and Instagram for updates throughout the competition.

For resources and tips year-round, visit the Attendance page on the LISD website.