Student Intervention
Early Support. Strong Attendance. Better Outcomes.
The program serves more than 4,000 students from kindergarten through fifth grade across seven Monongalia County elementary schools, helping children build strong attendance habits that support long-term academic success.
Program Services
How the Program Works
The Student Attendance Assistant Program enforces State and County Attendance policies while focusing on proactive, supportive strategies to increase attendance.
Student Attendance Assistants:
- Work closely with students, families, teachers, and school administrators
- Monitor attendance daily, weekly, and monthly at both school-wide and individual levels
- Implement positive programming and incentives to encourage consistent attendance
- Address attendance concerns early to prevent more serious issues later
By partnering directly with schools and families, the program effectively improves both individual student attendance and overall school attendance in grades K–5.
Program Details
Our Team
The Student Attendance Assistant team is made up of licensed social workers dedicated to student success:
- Michelle Morris, MSW, LGSW
- Nicole Stolzenbach, MSW, LGSW
- Randall Hacker, MSW, LGSW
Each team member works collaboratively with schools and families to identify barriers to attendance and connect students with the support they need.
Recognized for Excellence
2018 National Best Practice Award Winner
In 2018, the BUMFS Student Attendance Assistant Program was nominated for—and honored to receive—the National Best Practice Award from the United Methodist Association.
The award was announced and presented at the UMA National Convention in Nashville, recognizing the program’s effectiveness, innovation, and positive impact on student attendance and school communities.
Program Impact
By focusing on early intervention, collaboration, and positive reinforcement, the Student Attendance Assistant Program helps:
- Reduce chronic absenteeism
- Strengthen school–family partnerships
- Support student success both in and out of the classroom