How can we make schools more attractive to students? How do we engage them in their own education? This book treats the fundamental issue of whether students are 'conscripts' required by law to attend school, or whether (due to non-attendance) we should begin to see them as 'consumers' of their education. Key questions are asked to determine when students choose to skip school, how often, and why. Topics include: gender, ethnic/racial differences, academic standing, grade level, and school rules. This is an excellent book for administrators and supervisors, teachers, parents, school board members, and policy-makers who set programs for schools that affect attendance.