Check & Connect is an evidence-based, comprehensive intervention designed to support Tier 2 and Tier 3 students by enhancing their engagement in school and learning. It is particularly beneficial for marginalized or disengaged students in grades K–12, helping to improve attendance, behavior, and academic outcomes. The program centers on a structured mentoring approach in which an adult mentor meets weekly with the student for approximately 30 minutes. During these meetings, the mentor reviews data such as grades, attendance, tardies, and discipline referrals, and uses this information to guide conversations and support the student. Mentors also teach essential skills — including goal setting, problem solving, and organization—based on each student’s individual needs. Family engagement is also emphasized to encourage partnership and shared investment in the student’s success. The overarching goal of Check & Connect is to promote school completion and strengthen both academic and social competence.
The intervention is built on four key components:
- Mentor “Check”: Ongoing, systematic monitoring of student performance indicators—such as attendance, grades, and behavior—used to identify early warning signs of disengagement.
- Mentor “Connect”: Timely, personalized, data-based interventions tailored to the student’s individual needs.
- Family Engagement: Active collaboration with families to support the student’s learning, engagement, and progress in school.
- Relationship Building: Developing a strong, trusting relationship with the student that encourages open communication and supports long-term success in school and learning.
Together, these components create a coordinated support system that helps students stay engaged and improve their overall educational outcomes.