Maryland task force targets chronic absenteeism with new attendance toolkit and strategies

The Maryland State Board of Education convened on April 29, 2025, to address the pressing issue of chronic absenteeism in schools, a concern exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting featured updates from the Chronic Absenteeism Task Force and discussions on strategies to reduce absenteeism rates, which currently stand at 30% statewide, with a goal to cut this figure in half by the 2025-2026 school year.

Mary Gabel, a key figure in the task force, presented data indicating a significant rise in chronic absenteeism since the pandemic, highlighting the need for immediate action. The task force has developed an attendance toolkit aimed at local superintendents and principals, providing resources and strategies to combat absenteeism. This toolkit includes a spring attendance early action plan, designed to address the seasonal drop in attendance as warmer weather approaches.

The meeting also featured insights from school leaders, including Laurie Phelps, principal of Woodbridge Elementary School, who shared successful strategies implemented at her school. Phelps emphasized the importance of early intervention, noting that tracking attendance from the beginning of the school year is crucial. She reported a reduction in chronic absenteeism from 28% during the pandemic to 4.86% in the last school year, attributing this success to proactive measures such as engaging parents early and addressing barriers to attendance.

Ryan Voechlin, assistant superintendent for student services in Anne Arundel County, discussed the district's approach to fostering a culture of attendance. He highlighted the importance of a multi-tiered support system that involves not just attendance officers but the entire school community. Voechlin noted a decrease in chronic absenteeism from 22% to 18% this school year, underscoring the effectiveness of collaborative efforts and data-driven strategies.

Hetty Chang, executive director of Attendance Works, reinforced the need for a comprehensive approach to attendance, emphasizing that chronic absenteeism affects not only individual students but the entire school community. She called for continued collaboration and data sharing among schools to identify and address the root causes of absenteeism.

The board concluded the meeting by outlining next steps, including the development of additional toolkits and workshops for the upcoming school year, aimed at further reducing chronic absenteeism. The emphasis on early intervention and community involvement reflects a commitment to improving student attendance and, ultimately, academic success across Maryland schools.