Student need · K-12 education statistics
Chronic absenteeism
The share of students missing at least 10% of enrolled school days, for any reason.
A student is chronically absent when they miss at least 10 percent of the days they were enrolled — roughly 18 days in a typical 180-day year. Crucially, it counts all absences, excused and unexcused alike, which is what separates it from truancy.
It is measured per student rather than per day, and that distinction is what gives it value: a school can post a respectable 92% average daily attendance while a large minority of its students are chronically absent, because the same few children are missing repeatedly. Chronic absenteeism rose sharply across the country after 2020 and in many districts has not returned to its earlier level.
Also known as: chronic absence, truancy.
See chronic absenteeism in the data
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Chronic absenteeism — FAQ
What is chronic absenteeism in school and district data?+
The share of students missing at least 10% of enrolled school days, for any reason. A student is chronically absent when they miss at least 10 percent of the days they were enrolled — roughly 18 days in a typical 180-day year. Crucially, it counts all absences, excused and unexcused alike, which is what separates it from truancy.
Why does chronic absenteeism matter?+
It is measured per student rather than per day, and that distinction is what gives it value: a school can post a respectable 92% average daily attendance while a large minority of its students are chronically absent, because the same few children are missing repeatedly. Chronic absenteeism rose sharply across the country after 2020 and in many districts has not returned to its earlier level.
Where does this school and district data come from?+
Core statistics come from the National Center for Education Statistics — the Common Core of Data, EDFacts, and the Civil Rights Data Collection. The most recent graduation rates and state report-card outcomes come directly from state education agencies, which publish sooner than the federal series. pumsdata is independent and not affiliated with NCES or any state agency.