Addressing Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism within Illinois public schools continues to inflict harm upon individual-student and institutional progress. Increasing levels impact student achievement, lower graduation rates, strain school resources, and disrupt classroom instruction for all students.

The Illinois State Board of Education Wellness and Student Care Department will provide introductory insight on the realities of chronic absenteeism, recent policy shifts, and complementary local-region-state roles that may yield options for school districts.

Following this introductory information, an open roundtable discussion among attendees will occur to promote the sharing of issues, ideas, and successes. Districts that utilize unique approaches to address chronic absenteeism are highly encouraged to share during the discussion.