Chronically absent students are still a problem, even for kids who do go to class

Before the bell rings, before a single test is taken or a lesson begins, one question is crucial to the school day: Who’s not here today?

In classrooms from small towns to big cities, chronic absenteeism is quietly eroding student success. It’s a challenge most states face, yet one often overshadowed by test scores and graduation rates. But experts say the problem runs deeper, and fixing it takes a mutual relationship between schools and parents. 

A national issue hiding in plain sight

“Chronic absence is not a new problem,” said Hedy Chang, executive director of Attendance Works. “It nearly doubled during the pandemic, from 16 to 30% of all kids.”