Chronic absenteeism in elementary schools remains at crisis levels, even years after the pandemic. National data from the 2023–2024 school year show that 23–26% of students were chronically absent—missing 10% or more of the school year—compared to pre-pandemic rates of 13–15%. This troubling trend is especially evident in elementary schools, which now represent the largest share of institutions with extreme absenteeism.
Locally, the numbers reflect this alarming pattern:
- DeSoto County reported 34% of students chronically absent
- Charlotte County reported 31%
- Manatee County reported 29%
- Sarasota County reported 20%
Supporting Students at Risk of Chronic Absenteeism
In response, the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading (SCGLR), with catalytic funding from The Patterson Foundation, is expanding its efforts to improve attendance. For the 2025–2026 school year, SCGLR will offer the Motivating Improved Attendance (MIA) program to support public elementary schools in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. MIA targets students in PreK through Grade 5 who are at risk of chronic absenteeism—specifically those who have missed three or more days within the first 35 days of school. By identifying these students early, the program enables schools to intervene quickly, connecting with families to uncover barriers to attendance and offering strategies for improvement. SCGLR team members will work closely with school administrators to:
- Analyze attendance data
- Encourage early family outreach
- Share positive messaging and tips from Attendance Works
- Provide tools and resources to foster a culture of showing up
To celebrate progress and reinforce positive habits, students who demonstrate improved attendance will be recognized with a special pin and certificate. Their families will receive a gas gift card as a token of appreciation and support. With shared commitment and collaboration, the MIA program aims to reduce chronic absenteeism and improve academic outcomes—one student at a time. We invite schools and families to join us in this vital effort to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
If you have questions or would like to get involved, please email Beth Duda, director of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading: bduda@thepattersonfoundation.org
