Cincinnati Public Schools targets chronic absenteeism with new strategies and goals

In a recent Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) Board Special Public Meeting, the pressing issue of chronic absenteeism was at the forefront of discussions, highlighting the district's commitment to improving student attendance. Superintendent Murphy emphasized the importance of family involvement in addressing this challenge, noting that chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of school days in a year. This translates to just four missed days in a quarter, whether excused or unexcused, which can have lasting implications for students' educational journeys.

The meeting revealed that CPS is on track to reduce chronic absenteeism rates significantly. The goal is to decrease the percentage of K-12 students with chronic absenteeism from 45.9% in May 2023 to 36% by May 2025. Early data indicates progress, with the district achieving a 36% rate in the first quarter. Similar targets have been set for specific demographics, including Black and Hispanic students, with promising results reported thus far.

Superintendent Murphy also addressed the complexities surrounding attendance, acknowledging factors such as inclement weather and transportation issues that can hinder students from attending school. He pointed out that even if a student transfers after attending for a significant period, their absenteeism still counts against CPS, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to attendance tracking.

Board members contributed to the discussion by highlighting the need for tailored interventions. They recognized that chronic absenteeism varies among students, with some missing many days while others may only miss a few. Strategies to engage students through extracurricular activities, such as athletics and arts, were suggested as potential solutions to encourage regular attendance.

Vice President Bolton raised concerns about the impact of mobility and the challenges faced by immigrant and refugee populations, particularly regarding their attendance rates. The board acknowledged that these factors complicate the district's efforts to improve attendance and graduation rates, which are critical metrics for school performance.

As CPS continues to tackle chronic absenteeism, the focus remains on understanding the barriers families face and implementing targeted interventions. The district's proactive approach, in collaboration with community partners, aims to foster a positive school culture that encourages all students to attend regularly and succeed academically. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and action to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in their educational environment.