MDE sees improvement in most recent absence data report

It showed 23.9% of Mississippi public school students were chronically absent in 2022-23, a decrease from 28% in 2021-22.

MISSISSIPPI (WCBI) – The Mississippi Department of Education released the most recent school and district chronic absence data report.

It showed 23.9% of Mississippi public school students were chronically absent in 2022-23, a decrease from 28% in 2021-22.

Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing around 18 days of the school year for any reason. This includes excused and unexcused absences and suspensions.

The lowest rate of 13% was in 2018-19. The COVID-19 pandemic is likely to be the major factor that led to higher 2021-22 state and national rates.

This month, MDE launched an attendance awareness campaign – Every School Day Counts – Attend to Achieve – to help fight chronic absenteeism in the state.

For 24/7 news and updates, follow us on Facebook and Twitter