Chronic absenteeism in U.S. schools surged during the pandemic, peaking in 2021-22 after rising sharply from 2018-19, with varying recovery rates across student groups. The analysis covers 27 states and highlights disparities by income, English learner status, and race. Statewide averages often obscure these subgroup differences, which have key implications for education policy.
Key Points
- Absenteeism rates increased dramatically post-2018-19 due to the pandemic and peaked in 2021-22.
- Recovery varies by student demographics, including income, English learner status, and race.
- State averages mask subgroup trends, affecting policy decisions.
Implications for Educational Freedom
These trends underscore disparities in public school attendance that may drive parental demand for school choice options like vouchers or charters to ensure better educational environments. Empowering parents with data on absenteeism could enhance their rights to select schools that address specific student needs and reduce government overreach in failing systems.
Source: Chronic Absenteeism Trends in 27 States by Income, English Learner Status & Race
