US Schools Boost Attendance with Fun Activities and Support

Years after the COVID-19 pandemic, schools across the United States are grappling with significant attendance issues, with chronic absenteeism affecting about one in four students during the 2022-23 school year. This marks a notable increase from the 15 percent rate of chronic absenteeism prior to the pandemic. In Oakland, California, the situation is particularly dire, with chronic absenteeism rising from 29 percent to 53 percent, prompting schools to seek innovative solutions to encourage attendance. To combat these challenges, some schools have implemented programs that offer financial incentives and mentorship to students. For instance, the Oakland school district initiated a grant program in spring 2023, providing 45 students with $50 weekly for attending school daily. This initiative resulted in a 60 percent improvement in attendance among participants, highlighting the potential effectiveness of financial support in addressing absenteeism. Research indicates that many students who are chronically absent face underlying issues, such as emotional or behavioral problems, lack of reliable transportation, and inadequate clothing. At Fresno's Fort Miller Middle School, half of the students were chronically absent, with dirty clothing and transportation issues frequently cited as barriers to attendance. Schools have responded by offering rides to students who miss the bus, aiming to alleviate some of these challenges. Overall, the ongoing struggle with school attendance underscores the need for targeted interventions that address the root causes of absenteeism, as well as the importance of providing support to students and their families in the wake of the pandemic.