Legislation by Assemblymember and Chair of the Assembly Education Committee Patrick O’Donnell passed the Assembly today, according to an announcement released Monday.

AB 2815 ensures that students attend and stay in school by promoting a culture of attendance. The legislation would give district attendance supervisors more ways to address the causes of chronic absenteeism, according to the release.

“The first step to educating our children is getting them into the classroom,” stated O’Donnell, a teacher with 20 years of experience. “AB 2815 broadens the role of attendance supervisors so they can take a proactive approach to keeping kids in school and on the path toward graduation.”

Current law requires school districts and county offices of education to appoint attendance supervisors to enforce basic attendance requirements, while AB 2815 would “update” their responsibilities to implement early intervention tactics, as well. Supervisors would be able to use supportive strategies such as counseling referrals and engagement with local child welfare services to better cultivate regular attendance, according to the release.

The bill will next be considered in the State Senate.