Overview

• Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing at least 10% of the school year, has nearly doubled since the pandemic began.
• Higher rates of chronic absenteeism disproportionately affect Latino, Black, and low-income students.
• Key factors driving absenteeism include financial difficulties, mental health issues, lack of engagement, and feeling disconnected from school.
• Consequences of chronic absenteeism include increased risk of academic struggles, failure to learn fundamental skills, and dropping out.
• Though rates have improved slightly this school year, chronic absenteeism remains significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels nationwide.