Chronic absenteeism is a growing problem in schools across the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic is a minor contributor to absenteeism. Generally defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason, chronic absenteeism has risen in almost every district in almost every state. This is problematic because of the risks associated with chronic absenteeism. Chronic absenteeism and/or truancy puts students at risk for teen pregnancy, substance use, increases chances of involvement in the criminal justice system, as well as being linked to worse health and employment outcomes. Research suggests that the effects of absenteeism are cumulative and can have long-term impacts on quality of life beginning in kindergarten. 

ACT NOW believes that including the affected community in the conversation and prioritizing their voices is a necessary part of understanding best practices moving forward. To help combat the rise of chronic absenteeism, ACT NOW is launching Every Day Counts emphasizing the role of the community in creating school environments that are welcoming to students and fostering a sense of belonging. We will ask the community to engage students with questions regarding their experience in school. We use a model called SBIRT – Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment. Community leaders, faith leaders, coaches and other significant adults will be able to reach out to an attendance navigator to facilitate an intervention designed to keep young people in school.