Fewer students are missing school. These state policies may have helped
Summary
Chronic absenteeism in K-12 schools, where students miss 10% or more of the school year, has improved since the pandemic. A report highlights that policies in 22 states and Washington D.C. have helped by using supportive measures rather than punishments. Investment in mental health services and better absenteeism data collection are among the strategies improving attendance.Key Facts
- Chronic absenteeism is when a student misses 10% or more of the school year.
- Absenteeism rates doubled during the pandemic, reaching 28% in 2022.
- Policies in 22 states and Washington D.C. focus on support rather than punishment to improve attendance.
- Supportive measures include mental health programs and at-home visits.
- Some states, like Connecticut and Maryland, invest millions in services to reduce absenteeism.
- Accurate data collection helps target resources to students most at risk of being absent.
- Punitive measures, like corporal punishment, are discouraged as they can harm student motivation.
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