It’s an effective attendance intervention because it makes school a more welcoming place while providing positive social reinforcement.
How to Implement Lunch Bunch as an Attendance Intervention
1. Identify Students to Invite
Focus on students with frequent absences, tardiness, or disengagement.
Look for students who may feel socially isolated or lack strong connections at school.
Consider inviting a mix of students to encourage peer support.
2. Set Up a Lunch Bunch Routine
Host it once or twice a week for a set period (e.g., a month).
Choose a relaxed location (classroom, counselor’s office, library, or outdoor space).
Provide free or fun incentives like snacks, special seating, or small rewards.
3. Make It Fun & Engaging
Keep it casual and student-led—it should feel like a break, not a lecture.
Use conversation starters (e.g., “What’s the best thing that happened to you this week?”).
Incorporate games, activities, or topics based on student interests.
Celebrate small attendance improvements with shoutouts or certificates.
4. Track & Encourage Attendance
Compare attendance before and after participation in the group.
Recognize students who show up consistently.
If students miss Lunch Bunch, check in to see how they’re doing.
5. Transition to Long-Term Support
After a few weeks, encourage students to attend school even without Lunch Bunch.
Pair students with peer mentors or staff check-ins to maintain connections.
Continue informal check-ins to reinforce progress.
Why It Works
✅ Builds relationships—students feel noticed and cared for.
✅ Creates a safe space—helps students feel comfortable at school.
✅ Provides motivation—students look forward to something positive at school.
✅ Encourages accountability—peers can positively influence attendance.
Lunch Bunch Structure
Welcome & Check-In (5 minutes)
Greet students warmly, ask how their day is going
Icebreaker question (e.g., "What’s something good that happened this week?")
Engaging Activity (15-20 minutes)
Fun games (trivia, Pictionary, Would You Rather, etc.)
Discussion topics (hobbies, favorite movies, dream vacations)
Art, journaling, or collaborative projects
Encouraging Conversations (5-10 minutes)
Subtle discussions on school, attendance, and personal goals
Recognize small wins and celebrate improvements in attendance
Wrap-Up & Reflection (5 minutes)
Give shoutouts for participation and effort
Ask students for feedback on what they enjoyed
Encourage them to return and bring a friend
Attendance Tracking:
Week | Student Name | Attended? (Y/N) | Notes (Engagement, Participation) |
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Next Steps:
Continue informal check-ins with students after the program ends
Transition students to peer mentoring or club involvement
Monitor attendance trends and adjust support as needed
Additional Notes:
By making school a welcoming and enjoyable place, Lunch Bunch can help students feel more connected and motivated to attend regularly!