The Daily Kids Are Missing School at an Alarming Rate
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Apr 2, 2024 
Sarah Mervosh, an education reporter for The New York Times, dives into the alarming rise in school absenteeism across the U.S. She discusses how the pandemic reshaped perceptions of school attendance, transforming it from a necessity into an option for many families. Mervosh highlights the data linking remote learning to increased absences and the widening gaps between different income groups. The conversation also touches on effective strategies to combat this trend and emphasizes the essential role schools play in fostering community and learning.
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Absenteeism Crisis
- Chronic absenteeism has almost doubled since the pandemic, affecting 26% of students.
- This rise correlates with learning loss and behavioral issues, providing insight into current school challenges.
Widespread Absenteeism
- Surprisingly, increased absenteeism affects all demographics, not just low-income communities.
- Both wealthy and poor communities, as well as districts with varying remote learning durations, show similar increases.
Absenteeism Pattern
- Chronic absenteeism rates resemble a "Nike swoosh" curve.
- Rates are higher in early grades and high school, dipping in elementary and middle school.