The Litchfield Elementary School District will address chronic absenteeism during its regular governing board meeting on Oct. 15.
The meeting, held at 255 E. Wigwam Blvd., will focus on the district's absenteeism rates and propose potential solutions.
Dr. Bridget Duzy, deputy superintendent of academic success, will present findings on the district’s chronic absence rate. The analysis aims to evaluate the current situation and offer steps to address the issue.
Chronic absenteeism is defined by the Arizona Department of Education as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason, excused or unexcused.
Recent data indicates in Litchfield Elementary School District, 2,858 students, or 27% of the district’s K-8 enrollment of 10,506, are classified as chronically absent for the 2023-24 school year. Additionally, 22% of students have missed over 20 days of school.
The analysis examined absenteeism trends among various student groups, noting that higher rates are observed in students with 504 plans, those on free or reduced lunch, non-gifted students, special education students, and Hispanic students. According to the presentation, students with disciplinary incidents may also show increased rates of chronic absenteeism.
The presentation will reference trends in Arizona and nationwide, where chronic absenteeism remains a concern. Statewide, 25-30% of students are considered chronically absent, and research indicates a connection between attendance and academic performance. Schools that improve attendance by even 1% can see a corresponding increase in students passing the Arizona reading assessment.
Duzy's presentation will also outline proposed action steps to address chronic absenteeism and invite feedback from Litchfield Elementary School District governing board members to refine these strategies as the district prepares for the 2024-2025 school year.
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