What is Orland High School District 230 doing about student absences?

District 230 has introduced a new attendance policy, a communication campaign, and one-on-one interventions to improve student attendance.

Why did Orland District 230 change its attendance policy?

The district's chronic absenteeism rate more than tripled after the pandemic, prompting a need for stricter policies to emphasize the importance of school attendance.

How many students in Orland District 230 are chronically absent?

Last year, approximately 1,422 students, or about 19%, in District 230 were considered chronically absent, missing at least 10% of school days.

Home / Education / Schools Fight Post-COVID Student Absences

Schools Fight Post-COVID Student Absences

30 Nov

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Summary

District 230's chronic absenteeism rate tripled post-pandemic.
A new policy caps excused absences at eight per student.
District saw a 5% to 6% drop in absenteeism this year.

Schools Fight Post-COVID Student Absences

Orland High School District 230 is actively addressing a surge in student absenteeism that began after the return to in-person learning. Previously boasting a low chronic absenteeism rate, the district now faces figures three times higher than pre-pandemic levels, with approximately 20% of students chronically absent last year. This trend has prompted the implementation of a new attendance policy in August, capping excused absences at eight before requiring further verification, a move designed to underscore the value of consistent presence in school.

The district's efforts extend beyond policy changes to include a communication campaign titled 'attendance matters' and personalized interventions. These strategies aim to educate students and families on the critical link between attendance and academic success, as well as engagement in school activities. Research indicates that higher absenteeism correlates with lower academic performance and risks of not graduating on time.