Giving Compass' Take:

•  A new project funded by Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan found that chronic absenteeism is largely due to housing instability. 

• The author explains that schools can opt into the state's data collection system to be alerted when students are reaching chronic absenteeism. However, if housing instability is the root problem, how can schools address this from a systems change approach? 

• Read about the steps some have taken to reduce chronic absenteeism. 

Michigan has the sixth-highest rate of chronic absenteeism in the nation, with 15% of students missing at least 10% of school days. A new project funded by Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan found that housing instability is the largest predictor of chronic absenteeism, Chalkbeat reports.

The Detroit Public Schools Community District, for instance, has a 56% chronic absenteeism rate for all students, while the rate of students considered technically homeless under federal law is 86%

While improving housing issues for families is a natural solution, the study also suggests that all Michigan school districts should opt into the state’s data collection system, which automatically alerts educators when students are approaching chronic absenteeism levels.

A number of factors contribute to chronic absenteeism rates. Housing instability, which is often rooted in poverty, is high on the list of causes. Health issues, including the physical and mental health of students and parents, also plays a role, especially as issues such as the opioid crisis take a toll. However, addressing chronic absenteeism is often one of the most proactive steps schools can take to improve educational outcomes and increase funding lost through missing students.

Schools can also advocate for more interventions for these students in the form of coaches and coordinators to help students navigate the maze of services available and to help keep them on track with school attendance. Some schools are also using other strategies to provide more direct help for homeless students.

Schools can partner with local and national partners in this effort. Organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, the Salvation Army and other local organizations are often eager to work with districts to help craft local solutions to chronic absenteeism.

Read the full article about chronic absenteeism due to housing instability by [u'Amelia Harper'] at Higher Ed, K12 and Ed Tech News