What’s Right with Our Schools Bringing Kids Back to Class How local schools are improving chronic absenteeism BY TIM WILLERT . PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NORMAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
KRISTYN ERICKSON, NORMAN PUBLIC SCHOOL’S 2024 TEACHER OF THE YEAR, TEACHES FIRST GRADE AT TRUMAN PRIMARY.
C hronic absenteeism in schools is often rooted in challenges far beyond a student’s control, from working to help their family make ends meet to mental health struggles. Recognizing this, metro school districts are rethinking traditional approaches, focusing on building relationships, tailoring support and creating engaging environments to bring students back to the classroom. Their efforts highlight a growing awareness that attendance barriers often require innovative, compassionate solutions to improve student absenteeism.
Chronic absenteeism by the numbers
Student feedback sparks positive change
Approximately 37 percent of Oklahoma City Public School District students were considered chronically absent during the 2023-24 school year because they missed at least 10 percent of required instruction days. In Norman Public School District, approximately 17 percent of students were considered chronically absent during the same period, according to data contained in the district’s state report card. These statistics underscore the widespread nature of attendance challenges and the urgent need for tailored solutions to address chronic absenteeism in schools.
In November, Oklahoma City Public Schools brought together students from six traditional high schools with a task force composed of OKCPS officials and community partners looking for ways to lower chronic absenteeism in schools. They asked the students what made attending school hard and how the district could help. “The kids were very candid in their answers,” said Ariel O’Shields, the district’s attendance advocacy coordinator. Students are seeking stronger relationships with teachers, administrators and mentors; culturally responsive curriculum; career exploration opportunities and other incentives to motivate them to get to school.
20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MARCH-APRIL 2025
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