An initiative for Massachusetts High Schools

The SSEA initiative is designed to support schools and districts in enhancing their engagement and attendance practices through collaborative learning, strategic planning, and targeted support. The initiative is focused on building systems for identifying root causes and school climate challenges that contribute to absenteeism and improving student engagement, family engagement, and other student support needs.

SSEA is a joint effort between the Office of Student and Family Support and the Office of College, Career and Technical Education at MA DESE with funding from the US Department of Education, Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, Stronger Connections Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Grant Program (SCTAC). 

Participation

Who do we want to participate in SSEA? 

Schools with high drop-out rates and chronic absenteeism who are interested in professional learning and coaching to address student engagement and attendance. In 2025, 71 high schools were identified by DESE as prioritized participants given the schools’ attendance, behavior and course performance data and eligibility through Stronger Connections.  

We strongly recommend that schools identify and send a team of at least 2-3 school staff to attend the convening and participate in other offerings.  Districts may also identify a district level staff to accompany the school team to support the implementation of strategies and plans.   

What is the commitment? 

Participating schools agree to have a team of key players invested in and responsible for student success, including attendance and engagement, attend the convenings and participate in the virtual sessions. These teams will collaborate on action planning and implementation. Schools receiving coaching will meet with a coach during the 2026-2027 school year. 

*Participants are not required to complete any DESE Grant reporting and there is no cost to participate.