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At Perris Union High School District (PUHSD), family engagement isn’t a side initiative—it’s the foundation for improving attendance and student success. Faced with rising chronic absenteeism, PUHSD leaned into community voice and created something powerful: a culture of shared responsibility.
Here’s how they’re doing it:
PUHSD’s PELI Action Teams—modeled after Dr. Joyce Epstein’s NNPS framework—exist at every campus. These diverse teams of parents, students, staff, and community partners review data, identify root causes of absenteeism, and design customized engagement strategies. Parents aren’t just invited—they lead.
Students help shape the work by sharing what really keeps their peers from showing up—whether it's feeling disconnected, juggling work, or needing more inclusive activities. This feedback has led to real changes: new club opportunities, peer mentoring, and a more flexible online learning program.
From local business sponsorships to parent-led resource fairs and art contests, PUHSD ensures the wider community is part of the solution. When students see their town showing up for them, they show up too.
Districtwide, chronic absenteeism has dropped 8%, family participation is up, student engagement is rising, and trust is growing. PUHSD isn’t just improving attendance—they’re changing the way schools work with families and students.
Want to learn more about Perris Union's work to improve student attendance? Tune in on Thursday, August 14 to hear from Lindsay Chavez and 4 other outstanding educators who won a 2025 Attendance Innovation Award!
