California is taking significant steps to address chronic absenteeism, aiming to cut it in half by 2030. The state’s chronic absenteeism rate was 20% during the 2023-24 school year, a decrease from the peak of 30% in 2021-22, but still higher than the pre-pandemic rate of 12%. The California Department of Education (CDE) has issued a comprehensive guide to assist school districts in achieving this goal.
The effort is part of a broader initiative in collaboration with organizations like Attendance Works and the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence. The guide emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on health, well-being, family engagement, and student connectedness to tackle absenteeism’s root causes. According to EdSource, the state is encouraging schools to focus on transition grades, such as kindergarten, sixth, and ninth grades, where absenteeism often spikes.
Chronic absenteeism disproportionately affects certain groups, including Black, Native American, and Pacific Islander students, as well as students with disabilities, foster youth, and socioeconomically disadvantaged students. To address these disparities, the CDE’s guide suggests strengthening partnerships among schools, districts, and community organizations.
Cecelia Leong, Vice President of Programs at Attendance Works, highlighted the importance of collaboration in WestEd’s blog, stating, “Breaking down silos and fostering collaboration across departments is crucial to address the whole child.”
California’s commitment to reducing chronic absenteeism aligns with a national campaign involving several states. The state aims to create a supportive environment for students and families to improve attendance and engagement, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes.
Recent Comments