Learner Engagement and Attendance Program (LEAP) Celebrates 5 Years

Wednesday, August 19 — EdAdvance joined education leaders, state officials, and partners in Hartford to recognize the five-year anniversary of Connecticut’s Learner Engagement and Attendance Program (LEAP) and celebrate progress in reducing chronic absenteeism and student disengagement across the state.

Governor Ned Lamont, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Connecticut State Department of Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker, and Attendance Works President & CEO Hedy Chang were in attendance for the five-year celebratory Town Hall and press event.

Governor Lamont also issued an official proclamation recognizing the impact of LEAP and the dedication of the educators, districts, partners, and communities that have contributed to the program’s success.

Since its launch, LEAP has worked with school districts across Connecticut to strengthen student engagement, improve attendance, and address the barriers that can prevent students from regularly attending school. Through collaboration, data-informed strategies, and community partnerships, the program has supported districts in developing sustainable approaches to improving student outcomes.

The five-year milestone comes as Connecticut continues to see improvements in student attendance. Statewide chronic absenteeism has declined significantly, with recent data showing approximately 35,000 fewer students identified as chronically absent this year.

The event highlighted the collective efforts of Connecticut school districts and LEAP partners and recognized the continued work needed to ensure every student has the opportunity to attend, engage, and succeed in school.

Media Coverage

The five-year LEAP celebration and Connecticut’s progress in improving student attendance were featured by several media outlets:

• WTNH: “Lamont program to reduce chronic absences, disengagement post-COVID has worked”

• FOX61: “Connecticut celebrates five years of better attendance at schools”

• NBC Connecticut: “Connecticut student absenteeism improves, but advocates say challenges remain”

• Hartford Courant: “CT's chronic absenteeism dropped by 35,000 students this year. Here's how”

• CT Insider: “CT student chronic absenteeism drops for fourth year in a row”

• CT Mirror: “School attendance has bounced back in CT. Leaders hail LEAP program”

Watch the full Town Hall and press event on CT-N

About LEAP

The Learner Engagement and Attendance Program (LEAP) supports Connecticut school districts in addressing chronic absenteeism and improving student engagement. Through regional coordination, professional learning, data-informed practices, and collaboration with educators, families, and community partners, LEAP helps districts develop strategies that support students’ attendance, engagement, and academic success.

About EdAdvance

EdAdvance is one of Connecticut's six Regional Educational Service Centers (RESCs). Our mission as the RESC in western Connecticut is to promote the success of school districts and their communities. Collaboratively with them, we provide educational and related services. To learn more about EdAdvance and its work, visit edadvance.org.