What is the Chronic Absence Problem?
Over 44,000 Maine students experienced chronic absenteeism during the 2022-2023 school year. Chronic absence, missing 10% or more of school due to absence for any reason - excused or unexcused - means students are less likely to read proficiently by third grade, more likely to fail in middle school and are more likely eventually drop out of high school than peers who attend school more regularly.
Chronic absenteeism, starting in preschool and elementary school, is an early warning sign for later challenges. Early learners are building foundational skills and inconsistent attendance can make learning school routines and building healthy relationships more challenging. Addressing attendance challenges early with additional support can help learners get back on track!
To support everyday student attendance:
- build positive connections with students and families
- monitor attendance data alongside other risk factors
- develop and implement an multi-tiered attendance intervention plan
If you are feeling unclear about the definitions and legislation surrounding attendance, visit Truancy vs. Chronic Absence.
For more information about recent Maine chronic absenteeism data, visit the Maine DOE ESSA Dashboard.
If you are interested in national research and general messaging to support everyday attendance, visit Attendance Works.