Among the challenges faced by public schools is chronic absenteeism. In Pennsylvania, the rate was 21% in 2025.
One out of every five students missing classes on a regular basis is unacceptable. 21% is higher than before the pandemic.
The reasons for absenteeism are numerous. Sickness, unreliable transportation, housing and food insecurity, safety concerns and babysitting siblings are barriers. Some students stay away due to bullying. Others are disengaged and have little interest in study.
Finally, there’s the pandemic when remote learning changed some perceptions of the importance of being at school.
Some students came to prefer isolation! How can school districts respond?
Success stories involve offering support to address specific barriers and personalized interventions with students and parents.
Finally, a return to widespread agreement about the benefits of being at school will help in lowering the number of students missing too many classes.
