Educators agree, and studies confirm, that a child who maintains a solid attendance record is twice as likely to graduate from high school. This direct correlation between attendance and graduation can be vitally important to your district. Not only will students be able to excel as their attendance increases, but school districts can also improve their revenue opportunities for a variety of functions including transportation and lunch or tutorial programs. Improving attendance is a 'win-win' situation for both students and the district. Join Dr. Gwen Miller, Principal at J.R. Tucker High School (VA), Rita Morehead, Principal at School 17, Yonkers Public Schools (NY) and Scott Law, Assistant Principal, Paramount West High School (CA) as they share the unique ways they are using the Blackboard Connect service to improve student attendance, as well as demonstrate how they are having success with Blackboard Connect overall.

1. Improving Attendance: How the Blackboard Connect Service Can Help Your School Dr. Gwen Miller , Principal, J.R. Tucker High School Rita Morehead , Principal, School 17, Yonkers Public Schools Scott Law , Assistant Principal, Paramount West High School Cheryl Parris , Sales Engineer, Blackboard Connect, K-12

2. Keeping them informed and aware Engaging and assessing learners at all levels Enrich the experience through devices they love Making their daily lives more convenient and secure

19. Saturday School Notification Pre Blackboard Connect Post Blackboard Connect 100 or less students invited each week 500+ invites 6 hours per week making parent calls Less than 30 minutes to prepare list and send messages Average attendance was 30 students per Saturday Average attendance 155 students per Saturday Year average Attendance <94% Year average Attendance >96% Recoup $34, 200 Recoup $176,700

21. DISCUSSION & QUESTIONS?