As the state continues to battle back the pandemic-era spike of chronic absenteeism in schools, state and city leaders stopped by East Boston’s Hugh Roe O’Donnell Elementary School on Monday to recognize the school’s success getting kids back in class with a signed Celtics basketball.
“What a positive way to start the new school year – taking a moment to celebrate these 10 schools for doing the hard work and drastically reducing chronic absenteeism rates in such a short period of time,” said Gov. Maura Healey at the school. “We know how important school attendance is for learning, socialization, access to healthy food and so much more.”
The Healey-Driscoll administration has visited and delivered the golden basketballs to a list of 10 “2024 Attendance All-Stars schools,” which had the highest drops of chronic absenteeism between 2023 and 2024.
Chronic absenteeism is defined by missing at least 10% of the school year or 18 days in a year for any reason, excused or unexcused.
The Attendance All-Stars school averaged a 19% drop in chronic absenteeism between March 2023 and March 2024, according to state education data. The O’Donnell Elementary school was the only BPS school recognized, with a 18.7% drop.
Chronic absenteeism in the state dropped 5% overall from 24.5% in March 2023 to 19.6% in March 2024, DESE stated. That is also a nearly 10 percentage point decrease from March 2022.
The number remains higher than the pre-pandemic low of 13% across Massachusetts school in 2019, state officials said in a release of attendance data last year. Statewide, chronic absenteeism peaked at just under 30% in 2021-2022.
State and local officials noted the hard work at every level that goes into reducing chronic absenteeism, from teachers and families individually supporting at risk students to state resources.
“We know we have a way to go, but I am encouraged by the positive steps forward and the dedication of teachers, counselors, school leadership, families and so many more bringing joy to going to school,” said Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler.
Education officials noted the recent “Your Presence is Powerful” campaign, asking students, educators and others to submit why they attend school through artwork, writing or other creative methods by December.
“Schools cannot do this work alone,” said O’Donnell Principal Emily Sproviero. “Every O’Donnell community member has contributed to our progress. We look forward to continuing to work together to build on our shared success.”
Other schools recognized included Royalston Community School in Athol-Royalston, Bryn Mawr Elementary School in Auburn Public Schools, Pakachoag Elementary School in Auburn, Lillie B. Merrill Elementary School in Raynham, James Tansey Elementary School in Fall River, MLK Jr. Charter School of Excellence in Springfield, Colegrove Park Elementary School, North Adams, Shutesbury Elementary School in Shutesbury, and Anne T. Dunphy School in Williamsburg.
