States Tackle Chronic Student Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism spiked during the pandemic and remains high in many places: Ohio’s statewide rate rose from 16.7% in 2018–19 to 25.1% in 2024–25 with some districts nearing 50%, Virginia’s rate fell to about 14.8% in 2024–25, and many Arizona districts report more than 30% of students missing at least 10% of the year. Schools and districts are responding with a mix of prevention and enforcement: Woodbridge High in Prince William County tightened tardy policies and removed online homework, Mountain Pine Elementary uses classroom tracking and incentives like an “Attend Dance,” and Arizona districts run recognition and prize programs. Detroit Public Schools have reported measurable reductions by addressing systemic barriers through parent outreach, transportation help and incentive programs. Officials cite complex causes — illness, family vacations, transportation barriers, unstable housing and poverty — that raise risks of lower reading proficiency and higher dropout rates. State-level reforms and local partnerships aim to shift resources toward keeping students connected before absences become chronic, including Ohio’s new preventative-focused law and Virginia’s ALL In task force, alongside district incentives and community funding.