Chronic Absenteeism a Tough Topic at McKenzie Schools

A central item at the January 21 meeting of the McKenzie School Board was a presentation about the Lane Education Service District (ESD) 2025–27 Local Service Plan. McKenzie is currently in the second year of a two-year plan, with few changes proposed for renewal.

Despite its small size, McKenzie continues to show strong participation in career and technical education programs, including five students enrolled in the HOPE Factory and involvement in a new emergency services pathway that serves about 40 students countywide. The HOPE Factory, a partnership between Lane Education Service District, Lane Career and Technical Education (CTE), and St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County, provides seniors with hands-on training in the skilled trades at a working manufacturing facility on Garfield Street in Eugene.

Superintendent Lane Tompkins highlighted several student-focused initiatives, including a successful tech ambassador program operating in the fourth through sixth grades, which he said has received positive feedback from families.

Facility and infrastructure updates included completion of a septic system assessment during winter break, with repairs to be paid for through recovery funds. Progress is also underway on a FEMA mitigation grant project. A preliminary review is scheduled for early February, with final plans expected by February 23 in order to begin the bid process.

The district has also submitted a seismic revalidation grant application for the elementary school building, following earlier work on the gym. In addition, Richardson Media is producing three promotional videos for the district’s advertising campaign, expected to be released on social media by the end of the month.

The district’s business manager, Wendy Whitson, presented the financial report, noting November receipts totaling $3,152.50. She also reported a recent fraudulent check incident, in which a fake check using district account numbers was created with a fictitious payee. As a result, she said, the school’s bank has implemented additional security measures, including a positive pay system requiring approval of all checks and withdrawals. Legitimate payees will be added to a whitelist after initial verification, she said.

Tompkins reviewed the district and school report cards, noting that McKenzie serves 192 students Attendance, it was noted, is a major concern, with chronic absenteeism affecting approximately 60 percent of students. While kindergarten students show strong attendance at about 90 percent, seniors were identified as having the most significant attendance challenges. The superintendent outlined strategies to address the issue, including increased family outreach, attendance competitions, tutoring support, and individual student interviews to identify barriers.

The board also reviewed the annual charter school report, which showed strong progress toward academic goals, particularly in math achievement compared to other area schools. Tompkins confirmed the school remains in compliance with charter terms through regular monitoring and site visits.

A discussion followed regarding a vacancy on the school board. One applicant has applied for Position Three, which originally closed in September. The board will decide at its next meeting whether to extend the application period or proceed with interviewing the sole candidate.

The meeting concluded with an extended discussion on attendance challenges and potential solutions, including researching successful programs in other districts such as Oakridge. Board members expressed interest in greater community engagement, expanded trade and career pathways, and more individualized approaches to addressing chronic absenteeism.