Chronic absence is jeopardizing the futures of too many Arizona high schoolers. Over time, frequent absences are closely linked to lower standardized test scores, higher course failure rates, and an increased likelihood of dropping out.
Missing Too Much High School
Chronic absence is one of the most urgent issues facing Arizona’s high schools. A new research brief from Helios Education Foundation and WestEd, Missing Too Much High School, shows that rates among high school students are much higher than those in younger grades. Rates have slightly improved since the COVID-19 pandemic’s peak but are still well above pre-pandemic levels.
In the 2023–24 school year, more than one in three Arizona high school students were chronically absent—defined as missing 10% or more of the school year at a single school. That’s down from the peak of 42% during the 2021-22 school year, when 34% of high school students were chronically absent.
The report also reveals alarming trends: chronic absence rises with grade level—with high school seniors having the highest rates. Rates are also significantly higher among low-income and historically underrepresented students, as well as those in alternative or Arizona Online Instruction (AOI) schools.
Additionally, the report analyzed academic proficiency scores for students in grade 11 and found those with lower chronic absence rates were more proficient in English language arts and math, further emphasizing the connection between attendance and learning.
Who is Chronically Absent in Arizona High Schools?
