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New data show that more than 20% of students nationwide are chronically absent. But Maine is outpacing that average.
More than 23% of Maine students are chronically absent, a figure that has remained steady over the last two years.
According to the latest data from the Maine Department of Education, Indigenous, homeless and migrant students are all roughly twice as likely to be chronically absent as the average Maine student.
A new study from Attendance Works released this month shows that chronic absenteeism jumped 15% after the pandemic and is declining, but still far above pre-pandemic levels.
Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing at least 10% of school days throughout the year.
This story appears through a media partnership with Maine Public.