Children are Successful in School (Statewide)
Chronic Absenteeism: Students enrolled in school at least 10 days who are absent for 10% or more days
Current Value
30.9%
Definition
For a student to be chronically absent means that the student is absent 10 percent or more school days during the school year, when that student has been enrolled in the school for at least 10 days. “Absent” means “a student is not physically on school grounds and is not participating in instruction or instruction-related activities at an approved off-grounds location for the school day.
Chronically absent students include students who are absent for any reason, including illness, suspension, or the need to care for a family member – regardless of whether absences are excused or unexcused.
Story Behind the Curve
Absenteeism and truancy contribute to lost learning opportunities and have negative long-term consequences for students and communities. High levels of school absence are associated with a higher risk of school failure, high school dropout, delinquent behavior, substance abuse, and other high-risk behaviors.
What Works
Local Highlight
Through family involvement policy, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Truancy Courts, and a regional consortium on the Eastern Shore, as well as the strong involvement of Pupil Personnel Programs addressing individual involvement with local departments of social services, juvenile services, and the Attorney General’s Office, Local School Systems are continuing to place an emphasis on school attendance and achievement.
Data Discussion
Data Source
Point of Contact
Sylvia Lawson - sylvia.lawson@maryland.gov
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