Directs each local education agency adopt a program to monitor absenteeism data to identify students who are at risk for chronic absenteeism before it becomes a chronic situation.
If passed, S2533 will require municipalities and school boards to proactively address absenteeism issues, potentially reshaping existing approaches to attendance through customized and inclusive strategies. By necessitating the adoption of attendance support teams, this bill reinforces accountability within school districts, encouraging community engagement and collaboration among educators and stakeholders. Such measures aim to improve overall student attendance and engagement, thereby potentially enhancing academic performance across the state. The requirement to report absenteeism statistics further emphasizes the need for districts to focus on and prioritize attendance monitoring and intervention strategies.
Bill S2533 aims to tackle chronic absenteeism in Rhode Island's education system by mandating local education agencies to develop a program focused on monitoring absenteeism statistics. The bill defines a 'chronically absent child' as one who misses 10% or more of school days throughout the year. To combat this issue, the legislation directs local agencies to implement strategies tailored to their specific student populations, which may include establishing attendance support teams tasked with addressing the challenges faced by students at risk of chronic absenteeism. Additionally, the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education is required to establish a comprehensive plan by January 1, 2025, to reduce absenteeism rates effectively.
Concerns surrounding S2533 may stem from the implementation costs and the efficacy of attendance support teams. Critics could argue that without proper funding and resources, schools may struggle to effectively create and maintain these teams. Moreover, there could be apprehension about whether these teams can address underlying issues contributing to absenteeism, such as socio-economic factors or personal circumstances facing families. As school districts grapple with budgetary constraints, the practicality of these mandates may be questioned, raising discussions on adequate support and methodology to ensure meaningful intervention in reducing absenteeism.