Holding schools accountable for chronic absenteeism

(KNOX) – Grand Forks High School principals are addressing chronic absenteeism.
Red River principal Kris Arason and Central principal Jon Strandell feel the number of absences since the COVID pandemic are embarrassingly high… and that the schools have made it too easy to stay at home.
Strandell outlined a four-tiered system for six, ten, 12 and 18 absences per semester, with the latter two having academic consequences.
At 12 absences, no credit would be given for school work missed. The class would be dropped or the student transferred at 18 absences.
The Grand Forks School Board WAS NOT REQUIRED TO TAKE ACTION ON THE PLAN.

The Grand Forks School Board filled a position on the board left vacant in mid-term by Monte Gaulkler.
Sheryl Houdek was selected from four applicants. The first ballot reduced the number of applicants to two. The second ballot determined Hoh-deck’s victory.
She’ll be sworn in at a September board meeting.