Article Summary –
Absenteeism among Native American and Alaska Native students remains high, with rates 9 percentage points above state averages in half of 34 states. Efforts to improve attendance include on-site health services, cultural integration, and outreach to families. These measures have shown success in reducing absenteeism and enhancing student engagement.
Absenteeism Rates Surge for Native American Students in 2022-2023
Out of 34 states with data from the 2022-2023 school year, half reported absenteeism rates for Native American and Alaska Native students that were at least 9 percentage points higher than the state average. At the San Carlos Unified School District, 76% of students were chronically absent, meaning they missed 10% or more of the school year.
Tommy Betom, 10, who missed 40 days last year, is set for better attendance this year.
Years after COVID-19’s disruption, nearly every state still struggles with attendance. This problem is amplified among Native American students, a disparity existing before the pandemic.
Efforts to improve attendance include addressing health and trauma. The San Carlos school system introduced centers partnering with hospitals and food banks, led by cultural success coaches who connect with families.
Health and Cultural Support Help Attendance
Schools work to improve trust, with care centers providing services to students. Chronic absenteeism in the district dropped from 76% to 59% due to these efforts.
In three states — Alaska, Nebraska, and South Dakota — Native students’ absenteeism rates worsened, even as others improved.
Schools Recognize Native Ceremonial Days
Algodones Elementary School, serving pueblos along New Mexico’s Upper Rio Grande, faced a high absenteeism rate post-COVID. The school closes for Native ceremonial gatherings, and classes in native languages support students’ identities.
Jennifer Tenorio, a parent, appreciates the school teaching her native language, Keres, which she speaks at home.
Tenorio’s son, Cameron, enjoys school, expressing aspirations to become a policeman.
Home Visits Enhance School Perception
In Arizona, Rice Intermediate School improves attendance through family communication, including home visits. Principal Nicholas Ferro emphasizes activities that boost engagement.
Efforts in the district have improved not only attendance but also morale, particularly in high schools, as they aim to decolonize their education system.
—
Read More Arizona News
