Use strengths-based, nonpunitive framing in recruitment and family engagement for attendance programs¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The article recommends recruiting and engaging families by leading with support rather than deficit framing. Compass Care staff found that "caregivers were more receptive to participation when they adjusted their language to focus on Compass Care as an opportunity for extra support more broadly" instead of citing chronic absenteeism as the reason for referral. Staff also help caregivers reframe their narratives positively, highlighting capacities and skills rather than challenges, aiming to empower families to feel confident and hopeful.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Staff skilled in nonjudgmental communication and active listening
• Flexibility in meeting format and communication mode, depending on family preference

Constraints¶

• The stronger recruitment framing emerged during prior school years at Valor; receptiveness may depend on local family-school relationships

Target Learners¶

• Chronically absent students and their caregivers

Target Learning Goals¶

• Program enrollment and sustained family engagement
• Caregiver confidence in supporting students

Affordances¶

• Compass Care Wraparound Program Model

Related Strategies¶

• Culturally Competent Family Engagement
• Building Cultural Competency Skills for School Staff
• Family Engagement

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Zimiles, J., Nakamoto, J., & Boal, A. (2025). Compass Care at Valor Collegiate Academies: Attendance program spotlight. WestEd. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED677597