What is Chronic Absenteeism?
Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of school days in a year, whether the absences are excused or unexcused. This issue goes beyond skipping classes—it affects a student’s ability to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
When students miss school frequently, they fall behind in learning, lose opportunities to connect with peers, and face greater risks of dropping out. Chronic absenteeism disproportionately impacts students from underserved communities, often tied to challenges such as transportation, family responsibilities, or feeling disconnected from their school environment.
Champion Scholars addresses this critical issue by fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging through events and activities that motivate students to stay engaged in their education.
Understanding Chronic Absenteeism in the U.S.
According to recent studies, over 8 million students in the United States are chronically absent each year. These students are more likely to face academic struggles, with chronic absenteeism in early grades correlating to lower literacy levels. By high school, it becomes a leading indicator of potential dropout, with chronically absent students being seven times more likely to leave school before graduating.
Chronic absenteeism disproportionately impacts students from underserved communities, where barriers like transportation challenges, lack of access to healthcare, and feelings of disconnection from school are common.
Recent data shows alarming trends:
- Overall Absenteeism Rates: In the 2021-2022 school year, approximately 36% of students in high-poverty districts were chronically absent, compared to 21% in low-poverty districts. Nationally, chronic absenteeism rates surged due to the pandemic and have remained elevated since.
- By Grade Levels: Elementary and middle school students have seen increases in chronic absenteeism, with some districts reporting rates near 20% for younger students. High school students typically show the highest rates of absenteeism, partly due to external pressures like work or caregiving.
- Disparities by Demographics: English Language Learners (ELLs) and students from economically disadvantaged families are disproportionately affected, with absenteeism rates as high as 29% for ELL populations in some districts.