In New Jersey, chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason, including both excused and unexcused absences. While the state has made strides in reducing these numbers since the post-pandemic peak, absenteeism remains a critical concern that can have lasting impacts on student achievement and overall well-being.

Current Trends and Data

Prior to the pandemic, during the 2018-2019 school year, approximately 10.6% of New Jersey students were considered chronically absent. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp spike, with absenteeism climbing to 18.1% in 2021-2022, reflecting the widespread disruption to education during that period. Recent data for the 2023-2024 school year indicates a decrease to 14.9%, representing more than 190,000 students missing 18 or more days of school. While this drop demonstrates progress, rates remain above pre-pandemic levels, signaling the need for continued interventions.

Local districts are seeing encouraging results. Newark Public Schools, for example, reported a chronic absenteeism rate of 10.4% for the 2024-2025 school year, reflecting a meaningful reduction and highlighting effective local strategies.

Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Populations

Chronic absenteeism does not affect all students equally. Historically marginalized and vulnerable groups experience significantly higher rates, consistent with national trends:

• Homeless students: 41.3% were chronically absent in 2023-2024.
• Students in foster care: 27.3% were chronically absent.
• Black students: 21% were chronically absent.
• Hispanic students: 18% were chronically absent.
• Economically disadvantaged students face additional barriers, including unstable housing, food insecurity, and unreliable transportation, which contribute to higher absenteeism rates.

These disparities underscore the importance of targeted interventions that address systemic inequities while promoting consistent school attendance for all students.

Consequences of Chronic Absenteeism

Missing a significant portion of the school year has far-reaching effects on both academic and life outcomes. Students who are chronically absent in early grades are less likely to achieve grade-level reading proficiency by third grade, a milestone closely linked to long-term academic success. Chronic absenteeism is also the strongest predictor of dropping out before high school graduation. Beyond academics, absenteeism correlates with higher rates of suspensions, increased risk of teen substance use, and long-term health challenges.

Strategies for Improvement

New Jersey has taken several proactive steps to address chronic absenteeism through legislative, educational, and community-based initiatives:

• Statewide Task Force: Lawmakers passed a bill creating a task force to study the root causes of absenteeism and recommend solutions, ensuring a coordinated statewide approach.
• Corrective Action Plans (CAPs): The New Jersey Department of Education requires schools with chronic absenteeism rates of 10% or higher to develop CAPs, detailing strategies to improve attendance and support student engagement.
• Community Engagement: Local districts are partnering with families, social service agencies, and community organizations to provide resources and support. These efforts emphasize the importance of addressing barriers to attendance, such as transportation and access to basic needs, while fostering stronger family and school connections.

For families and educators seeking additional guidance and strategies, the New Jersey Department of Education offers resources through their Health & Wellness and Conditions for Learning platforms, helping to provide actionable tools to improve attendance and student outcomes.

Addressing chronic absenteeism in New Jersey requires a multifaceted approach that combines data-driven policies, community collaboration, and targeted support for vulnerable populations. By understanding the causes and consequences, the state continues to make strides toward ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive academically and socially.