15 Million Students Chronically Absent

(From Axios) A surge in student absences since the pandemic, as reported by Attendance Works, signals a concerning trend with nearly 30% (14.7 million) chronically absent in 2021-22. Hedy Chang, Attendance Works' executive director, warns of widening inequities, emphasizing the impact on reading skills, academic challenges, and increased dropout rates. Elementary schools saw a stark increase in absenteeism, jumping from 7% to 38% in schools with 30% or more chronically absent students. Various factors contribute, ranging from health issues to academic struggles and family responsibilities.

From Axios