The Salem News: Mass. makes progress on absenteeism, but rate still high
Posted on: August 16, 2024
Salem Public Schools rate down from 34% in 2021-22 to 22.7% in March 2024
By Christian Wade, Statehouse Reporter
BOSTON — Massachusetts has made strides in reducing absenteeism among public school students, which skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, but nearly a quarter of students are still skipping school, according to newly compiled data.
In Salem, the rate has fallen from 34% in the 21-22 school year to 22.7% in March, which Superintendent Steve Zrike attributed to the district’s strategic approach to engaging families of students who are struggling with a lack of transportation, food insecurity and homelessness and luring students back with programs that are engaging.
