Chronic Absenteeism Impact Analysis

Turning Data into Action for Nevada Schools by Analyzing the Impact of Chronic Absenteeism

In the first years following the disruption of in-person education due to COVID-19, the rate of chronic absenteeism skyrocketed nationwide. Despite efforts to reduce this in the years since, the rate of chronic absenteeism in Southern Nevada remains elevated at 31.3 percent in 2024, 9.4 percentage points higher than in 2019. The lifetime community cost of this elevated rate persisting over the next 20 years is $14.4 billion. Our analysis on this subject has been used to raise funding for local family resource centers, inform policy discussions, and support the placement of support staff in every Washoe County middle school.

This project evaluated the past, present, and potential future impacts of the rise of chronic absenteeism in Southern Nevada following COVID-19. Though elevated chronic absenteeism is occurring nationwide, few studies have attempted to quantify complete impacts. Our analysis took a comprehensive approach, carefully evaluating all potential factors and the measure, direction and timing of the impact resulting from each factor. The report presents economic, fiscal and social impacts in an easily digestible format accessible to all community stakeholders.

Chronic Absenteeism Impact Analysis

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