In Medford, Massachusetts, the principal of Medford High School implemented a unique strategy to improve attendance by allowing students to play organized sports during lunch if they attended all their classes. This initiative, akin to recess for high schoolers, helped reduce chronic absenteeism rates at the school significantly. Across the country, schools are still grappling with attendance issues stemming from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collected by The Associated Press and Stanford University economist Thomas Dee shows that roughly one in four students were chronically absent in the 2022-23 school year, compared to 15% pre-pandemic.
Efforts to address chronic absenteeism include creative solutions like offering financial incentives for attendance and establishing mentorship programs. Oakland, California, saw success with a program that paid students for perfect attendance, leading to significant improvements in attendance rates. Schools are also focusing on addressing the underlying reasons for absences, such as mental health struggles and transportation issues.
In Fresno, California, Fort Miller Middle School implemented initiatives like providing access to laundry facilities and transportation for students who missed the bus, resulting in a decrease in chronic absenteeism rates. Experts emphasize the importance of changing the culture around sick days and addressing the root causes of absences to improve student engagement and academic outcomes. Despite the challenges, schools are working to identify students with slipping attendance and provide support to help them stay engaged in their education.
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