Overview

• Chronic absenteeism in American schools has risen dramatically since the pandemic, with 66% of schools reporting high or extreme levels in the 2021-22 school year, up from 26% in the 2017-2018 school year.
• The education sector is struggling with a teacher shortage, as many teachers quit due to low pay, high stress, and the challenges of remote teaching.
• The lack of investment in public schools and the shortage of educators has led to a decline in the educational system, with testing scores suffering as school districts struggle with learning disruptions and staffing issues.
• Chronic absenteeism is worse in high-poverty schools, with nearly 70% experiencing widespread absenteeism in the 2021-22 school year, compared to 25% before the pandemic.
• To address chronic absenteeism, experts suggest more funding for the education experience and establishing strong relationships between teachers and students.