Fighting Chronic Absenteeism: Higher Ground's ReStart SMART Strategy Delivers Results
You’ve probably recently heard media reports about chronic absenteeism or heard your neighborhood schools talking about how absenteeism is a problem for students and families. Chronic absenteeism is part of our national conversation right now and Higher Ground’s Restart SMART schools are having success reducing absenteeism by providing targeted support, mentorship, and vital resources..
Across the nation, and right here in Arizona, chronic absenteeism is a growing concern that demands our attention. The U.S. rate of chronic absenteeism reached a staggering 28% in the 2022-23 school year, meaning nearly one in three students missed 10% or more of school. In Arizona, while data is still being compiled for the 2023-24 school year, preliminary reports indicate similar trends, with many districts grappling with alarmingly high absence rates. Dept of Education Report
This crisis has devastating consequences for our children. Missing crucial instructional time leads to long-term learning gaps, especially in early grades where foundational skills are built. Research shows that children chronically absent are far less likely to read at grade level by third grade, setting them on a path of academic struggle. Community Schools Approach and Helios Foundation
At Higher Ground, we understand that chronic absenteeism is a complex issue with interconnected factors, including student disengagement, lack of access to support, and health challenges. Higher Ground’s Restart SMART strategy is a comprehensive, data-driven approach designed to address chronic absenteeism issues in our Tucson and Chandler schools. Higher Ground Impact
These are the results of our efforts in the 2023-2024 academic year:
47% of students improved their attendance, directly combating the chronic absenteeism crisis.
56% saw a decrease in discipline incidents, creating a more positive and productive learning environment.
56% demonstrated improvement in wellness, addressing the holistic needs of our students.
55% increased their resilience/grit, equipping them with essential life skills.
36% enhanced their self-control, fostering emotional and behavioral regulation.
These numbers represent real lives transformed. Higher Ground is empowering students to overcome obstacles and thrive, breaking the cycle of absenteeism and its detrimental effects.
Your generous support is the cornerstone of this vital work. You are directly impacting the lives of students in Arizona, ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. Thank you for partnering with us to build a brighter future for our community.
P.S. To learn more about how you can support our Restart SMART strategy and combat chronic absenteeism in Arizona, please visit our website at www.higherground.me or contact us at 520-981-5872.