Breakout 5.5: Purposeful Leadership for Improving Attendance
New Hanover County Schools
9:40 AM - 10:25 AMWed
South
Breakout
Consistent student attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic success, yet it remains a challenge for many schools. This session will equip principals and assistant principals with practical, research-based strategies to strengthen student attendance through purposeful leadership. Participants will explore how to build a culture of attendance, engage families as partners, and implement systems that make a measurable difference. The focus will be on actionable steps—strategies you can take back to your school and apply immediately to see results. Whether addressing chronic absenteeism or striving to improve daily attendance, this session will provide tools, examples, and leadership practices that align with your role as a school leader. Walk away with a clear plan for leading with purpose to improve student outcomes by ensuring students are present, engaged, and ready to learn. Presenters: Deanna Leake, Cyndy Bliss, Sam Smithson