Preventing Chronic Absenteeism

This report explores how school districts prevent chronic absenteeism. Specifically, it examines the causes of chronic absenteeism, intervention strategies, and tactics districts use to encourage a standardized approach at the individual school level.

Summary This report explores how school districts prevent chronic absenteeism. Specifically, it examines the causes of chronic absenteeism, intervention strategies, and tactics districts use to encourage a standardized approach at the individual school level. Key observations from our research 1. Chronic absenteeism, which the U.S. Department of Education defines as missing at least 15 days of school in an academic year, affects students of all races, genders, and ages, but affects certain grade levels and races disproportionately. 2.Profiled districts identify individual student barriers to attendance to tailor intervention strategies. 3.Initial intervention strategies aim to deter chronic absenteeism by warning students and their families about poor attendance and its consequences. 4.Several profiled districts try to build student engagement with school material to increase attendance. 5. Profiled districts offer onsite trainings and information sessions for administrators, teachers, and staff to facilitate a coordinated and consistent approach to addressing chronic absenteeism. Download the Report