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Publications

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Publication

Chronic Absenteeism in Washington's K–12 Schools: School-Level Factors and What Works to Reduce Absenteeism

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Julia Cramer, Leah Hardenbergh, Heather Grob - August 2026

In 2025, WSIPP released a report on what Washington schools are doing to address chronic absenteeism. In this report, we examine school-level factors associated with higher absenteeism rates in schools and conduct evidence reviews and benefit-cost analyses to determine which interventions can effectively reduce absenteeism.

We find that schools with a higher proportion of students who are low-income, have a disability, and/or are homeless, and schools with a higher discipline rate tend to have higher chronic absenteeism rates. Increased social media use is associated with higher chronic absenteeism rates in middle and high schools, and increased bullying is associated with higher rates in middle schools.

Research evidence indicates that parent communication strategies, home visits, and early warning systems can increase attendance and reduce chronic absenteeism, on average. Interventions like School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) and school-based mentoring may not impact attendance, but can positively affect test scores and disciplinary actions.

These results can help decision-makers anticipate which risk factors may be associated with chronic absenteeism in schools and implement effective interventions accordingly.

Download:   Report    Executive Summary    Series Recap  
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