In a country still grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, chronic absenteeism remains a significant issue in schools across the United States. According to data collected by the Associated Press and Stanford University economist Thomas Dee, approximately 12 million students were chronically absent in 42 states and Washington, D.C. during the 2022-23 school year.

California, one of the hardest-hit states, saw around 1.45 million students, or 1 in 4, classified as chronically absent during the same period. These figures are comparable to the national average, with the Los Angeles Unified School District facing an even higher rate of chronic absenteeism, affecting approximately 1 in 3 students.

The problem of chronic absenteeism is particularly prevalent in school systems serving low-income families, both before and after the pandemic. In the Los Angeles Unified School District, where 81% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, attendance rates have been a significant concern. However, despite the high rates of chronic absenteeism, there has been progress compared to the previous year.

Experts believe that the extended school closures and the challenges students faced during the pandemic continue to contribute to the chronic absenteeism issue. After months of learning remotely and disruptions to their academic routines, many students have found it overwhelming or socially stressful to return to in-person learning. This has led to a greater acceptance of staying home, making it more difficult for students to catch up on missed work.

To address the issue, schools are implementing innovative solutions. In the case of Yaretzi Perez, a ninth-grader in Arlington Heights, her school district arranged for her to take an L.A. Unified bus route to get to her high school, ensuring her attendance. Initiatives like iAttend, a program in the Los Angeles Unified School District, involve staff reaching out to families and tailoring solutions to improve attendance rates.

Schools in other areas are also finding creative ways to combat chronic absenteeism. In Oakland, where chronic absenteeism skyrocketed from 29% to 53%, a grant-funded program was implemented, offering financial incentives to students for perfect attendance. Additionally, students checked in daily with an assigned adult and received support for their mental health.

Experts emphasize the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and connection for students. Efforts such as Oakland's African American Male Achievement project, which pairs Black students with Black teachers for support, have shown positive results. Studies indicate that students who identify with their educators are more likely to attend school regularly.

The fight against chronic absenteeism is ongoing, as schools continue to face challenges related to achievement gaps, declining enrollment, and absenteeism. However, by implementing tailored solutions, providing support systems, and fostering a sense of belonging, educators and districts hope to improve attendance rates and ensure that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed academically.