Historic Convening in Indianapolis to Address Global Attendance Crisis

April 20, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Indianapolis, IN – April 21, 2025 – On May 20-21, Indianapolis will host the groundbreaking USA Conference under the theme “Merged Lanes,” bringing together thought leaders, educators, and policymakers to tackle the growing global crisis of attendance and absenteeism. This pivotal event will take place at the Indianapolis Marriot East downtown and aims to unite stakeholders across the United States to confront this pressing issue.

Chronic absenteeism has reached alarming levels worldwide, with nearly 30% of U.S. students chronically absent during the 2021-22 school year—a staggering increase from pre-pandemic levels. This trend threatens educational outcomes and underscores the urgent need for collective action.

The conference will feature a convergence of influential speakers, including keynote speaker Jamie Merisotis, a renowned advocate for education reform and CEO of Lumina Foundation. Merisotis will spotlight innovative solutions to improve attendance and ensure equitable access to education for all students. Internationally renowned attendance expert Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty currently Professor and Founding Dean at Butler University’s Founder’s College in Indianapolis leads this historic effort alongside convening host Director James Taylor and the MSD Warren Township.

Attendees will explore strategies to combat absenteeism, share success stories, and build partnerships to address barriers that keep students from school. The event promises to be a catalyst for change, emphasizing that solving this crisis requires collaboration across sectors.

For more information check website: https://attendanceusa.org/ or to register for the conference visit event website: https://urldefense.com/v3/https:/tinyurl.com/bd3akzbh;!!NuAq3lKL!u3OsThyUVxqb7jkIzrSVH_S089x92Tf8m-opWKjB1TqTtPYiBsS9QyQ87KlqBs95bFeyR6eDAlLlZQfluprMDQLajSmudvs$

Media Contact:
Shelneka Adams Marsalone
Attendance USA
Shelneka@attendanceusa.org