Coeur d’Alene schools tackle absenteeism

When a student misses a day of school, it’s more than just a day of learning lost.

It’s a missed connection with classmates, a missed opportunity for growth — and for Coeur d’Alene schools, it also carries a financial burden. 

Across the Coeur d'Alene School District, absenteeism has quietly become one of the biggest challenges facing students and teachers alike. Each day a student is absent costs the district about $45 in state funding. Last year, that added up to nearly $4.8 million — dollars that would have supported teachers, programs and student services, according to a Wednesday press release from the district.

“Absenteeism isn’t just an education issue — it’s an economic one,” Superintendent Shon Hocker said. “When attendance drops, so does funding. Every missed day represents a missed opportunity for learning and a tangible loss of resources that support every child in our classrooms.” 

Under Idaho’s definition, students are considered chronically absent when they miss 10% or more of the school year, or about 18 days. That includes any type of absence: illness, family trips, appointments or unexcused time away, the release said.

In the Coeur d’Alene School District, 18.6% of students are chronically absent, compared to the state average of 15%. Over the past two years, schools have seen steep increases across several categories: 

• Illness-related absences: up 53%
• Dental and medical appointments: up 46%
• Vacation days: up 32%
• Other absences: up 33% 

The reasons for the absentee increases are complex, likely driven by societal factors and cultural norms, Hocker said.  

"Every empty desk represents lost learning — and long-term risks that reach beyond the classroom,” Hocker said. “We’re working hard to address this issue in all of our schools.”  

Canfield Middle School keeps attendance visible and fun: A large hallway display tracks which grade has the best attendance, and weekly drawings reward students who haven’t missed a day with treats like Jamba Juice or candy bars. Attendance stats even run on the school’s TVs and in its announcements. 

“Students who are chronically absent are four times more likely to not graduate high school than those who don’t miss class,” Canfield Principal Nick Lilyquist said. “This is a priority and we’re attempting to make it fun for the kids.”  

At Winton Elementary, Principal Kathleen Corbeill said the goal is simple: Make school a place kids want to be. 

“We believe attendance is about so much more than a number or dollar amount,” Corbeill said. “When students miss school, they miss out — on friendships, learning and being part of our community.” 

Winton’s approach is full of creativity and celebration, the news release said. Each week, the “Traveling Wolves” mascot trophy moves to the classroom with the best attendance. A colorful “attendance wall” celebrates progress, and monthly assemblies recognize students with 95% or better attendance. Those students earn special experiences and rewards — and a lot of pride. 

“Teachers work hard to make classrooms engaging and welcoming,” Corbeill said. “Attendance matters, and we want our students to feel proud of being present.” 

At Bryan Elementary, Principal Kristin Gorringe and her team take a caring, proactive approach. 

“We see a huge correlation between attendance and both academic and social success,” Gorringe said. “Every day really does matter for our students.” 

Each week, staff review attendance data and reach out early to families before absences become patterns. They offer support, guidance and solutions, from adjusting schedules to connecting families with resources. 

“We want to support families long before truancy ever becomes a concern,” Gorringe said. “In keeping with Idaho law, we only move forward with truancy once every other step — including attendance contracts and family outreach — has been taken.” 

Quarterly celebrations and small incentives keep the focus positive.

“It’s about encouraging, not punishing,” Gorringe added. 

At Coeur d’Alene High School, Principal Victoria Beecher ties attendance to something even bigger: Student confidence and ownership. 

“Strong attendance is the foundation of student success,” Beecher said. “Every day in class strengthens not only learning, but relationships, connections and confidence. Our campaign celebrates students who are showing up, leveling up and taking ownership of their futures.” 

While schools are stepping up with creative ideas and strong relationships, leaders say families play a vital role, too. 

“Every day a student shows up is a win,” Hocker said. “Every effort, no matter how small, helps strengthen connection, belonging and academic success.” 

Families can help by scheduling appointments outside school hours, avoiding vacations during class time and returning students to school as soon as possible after illness. 

“Every single school day is an opportunity for learning, friendship and growth,” Hocker said. “By working together, we can fill our classrooms and strengthen our children’s futures.”