PASS Program
Ensuring students are present, and ready to learn.
Since 2022, St. David’s has partnered with Scott County to offer the PASS program—Promoting Attendance and School Success. PASS supports children under age 12 and their families when school attendance becomes a concern, helping ensure every child has the opportunity to engage, learn, and grow.
We take a relational, individualized approach to understanding what’s getting in the way of consistent attendance. By partnering with caregivers, children, and school staff, we work together to uncover the root causes—whether it’s illness, transportation, behavioral challenges, or something else—and co-create solutions that work for each unique family.
We believe that every child deserves to be in school, surrounded by peers and supported in building the skills that shape their future. Our role is to walk alongside families, offering tools, encouragement, and advocacy—so no one feels alone in the process.
While Minnesota law recognizes school attendance as a family responsibility, we know that it takes a community. PASS is here to support that shared effort—connecting families, schools, and systems in service of every child’s success.
Kindergarten-5th Grade
Visit frequency is determined by attendance concerns and family needs. Typically, visits happen twice per month.
In client's homes
Monday-Friday; flexible hours to meet the needs of families
Eligibility: Scott County residents with a child in Kindergarten-5th grade who is experiencing, or is at risk of, school attendance concerns.
More about PASS
How do we partner with schools and families?
We center the caregiver-child relationship as the foundation for every child’s success. Our team works alongside families to align parenting strategies with each child’s unique developmental needs and to reduce barriers that may be affecting school attendance.
We collaborate with caregivers to create a plan that supports consistent attendance, advocate for family needs, and ensure that every voice is heard. We also stay in communication with schools to track progress and celebrate improvements.
What can I expect from a visit?
Each visit is grounded in relationship and trust. We begin by listening—learning what’s going well and what’s getting in the way of regular school attendance.
Together, we explore what supports might help your child feel more successful at school. We offer practical tools, connect you with resources, and provide guidance tailored to your family’s goals. Whether it’s parenting support, new strategies for connection, or help navigating systems, we’re here to walk alongside you.
If you have questions or want to connect with our team, please reach out to St. David’s Center at (952) 548-8700.
Frequently Asked Questions
This program is offered at no cost to families, thanks to our partnership with Scott County.
The PASS-Prevention Program receives referrals from local school districts when there are concerns about a student’s attendance. Our goal is to offer support early—before attendance issues escalate to the point of an educational neglect report.
In Minnesota, schools may file an educational neglect report with child protection when a student has seven or more unexcused absences in a school year. PASS is designed to help families address challenges before that point.
To refer a family or learn more, download the referral form: SDC_PASS-Prevention_Referral-Form_091924.pdf
If you have questions or want to connect with our team, please reach out to St. David’s Center at (952) 548-8700.