Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in Arizona Schools
During the 2022-2023 school year, 28% of Arizona students were considered chronically absent. This alarming statistic has prompted U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego to propose federal grants for schools to tackle this issue head-on.
More than 1 in 4 Arizona students are ‘chronically absent”
A student is considered “chronically absent” if they miss 18 days over the school year, an average of two days or more per month. The average was even higher (35%) for students categorized as “economically disadvantaged”.
Gallego’s “Keeping Our Students in Schools Act” aims to fund district positions and technology promoting attendance. Gallego, who understands the challenges faced by less-privileged families, emphasized the importance of empowering schools to address chronic absenteeism.
Opponents like Kari Lake have not yet provided a comment on the proposed bill, but critics argue about the federal government’s involvement in local school issues.
Money misspent or well-spent?
Gallego defended his bill, claiming that it could save money in the long run by preventing the need for additional educational support and potential incarceration for chronically absent students. If passed, the bill would allocate funds for student transportation, wellness checks, mentorship programs, absenteeism monitoring software, and instructional support staff.
Critics: Get the feds out of school issues
Some critics, like Arizona Schools Superintendent Tom Horne, argue that school issues should be handled at the state level rather than by the federal government. Horne suggests implementing stricter attendance policies at the district level instead.
The pandemic caused new challenges
The ongoing pandemic has also introduced new challenges, such as parents keeping sick children at home and increased mental health issues among teens. Schools across Arizona are in need of additional resources and support to address root causes of absenteeism.
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