The sharp increase in chronic absenteeism in New York schools, as detailed in State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli’s recent report, is a serious concern. Nearly one in three students were chronically absent during the 2022-23 school year, with high schoolers faring even worse. This situation, exacerbated by the pandemic and its aftermath, calls for a proactive and collaborative response from educators, families, and communities alike.

The consequences of chronic absenteeism are well-documented: lower grades, poor standardized test scores, and an increased risk of dropping out. As DiNapoli rightly pointed out, reducing chronic absenteeism is crucial for addressing pandemic-era learning loss. But how can we achieve this?

First and foremost, schools need to understand the underlying reasons for absenteeism, which vary widely—from health issues and transportation barriers to mental health struggles and family responsibilities. By identifying these root causes, schools can tailor their interventions to meet individual students’ needs. This might involve expanding access to school counselors, partnering with local transportation services, or working with health professionals to address both physical and mental health concerns.

Community engagement is also critical. Schools need to build trust with students and their families, making them partners in education. Frequent communication between schools and parents—through phone calls, community events, and parent-teacher conferences—can help families feel more connected and committed to their children’s education. Schools could also consider creating mentorship programs, where older students or community volunteers offer guidance and support to those at risk of chronic absenteeism.

Additionally, schools must foster a positive and welcoming environment. Students are more likely to attend when they feel a sense of belonging. This means investing in extracurricular activities, ensuring that classrooms are supportive spaces, and addressing bullying or other issues that might make students reluctant to attend.

Addressing chronic absenteeism will require resources and creativity. It is not enough to simply penalize students for missing class; instead, schools must be prepared to meet students where they are and help them overcome the barriers keeping them away. With a concerted effort from educators, parents, and communities, we can turn the tide on chronic absenteeism and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.