Florida Faces Alarming Rise in Student Absenteeism Post-Pandemic

Florida's education system is grappling with a significant surge in chronic student absenteeism, a trend that has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic. Chronic absenteeism—defined as missing 10% or more of the school year—has escalated from approximately 20% before the pandemic to nearly 34% in the 2023-24 school year. This increase is particularly pronounced among high school students, with rates rising from less than 25% pre-pandemic to 37% in 2023-24.

The escalation in absenteeism is widespread, affecting 66 of Florida's 67 counties. For instance, Orange County's chronic absenteeism rate increased from 21% to 35%, Duval County from 29% to 45%, Hillsborough County from 19% to 31%, and Miami-Dade from 19% to 28%. Schools with higher poverty rates are disproportionately affected; approximately 35% of students in high-poverty schools are chronically absent, compared to 19% in schools with lower poverty levels.

The rise in chronic absenteeism has been linked to declining academic performance. Florida's middle school students posted their lowest reading and math scores in over two decades on the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). Fourth graders also recorded a 20-year low in reading scores. High school seniors in 2024 achieved the state's lowest SAT scores in a decade.

Despite the severity of the issue, Florida has not implemented a comprehensive statewide strategy to address chronic absenteeism. The state has not adopted common measurements for tracking absent students, nor has it launched public awareness campaigns or held schools accountable for reducing absenteeism. When Attendance Works, an education advocacy group, contacted all 50 states seeking data on absenteeism, Florida was the only state that did not respond.

In response to the escalating crisis, Representative Erika Booth of Osceola County introduced House Bill 13-67 in February 2025. The bill aims to establish a statewide attendance policy, define chronic absenteeism, and enhance accountability for both schools and parents. Key provisions include prohibiting out-of-school suspensions as a punishment for attendance issues, requiring early identification of chronically absent students, and mandating regular attendance reporting. As of June 2025, the bill remains under debate in the Florida Legislature.

The surge in chronic absenteeism has profound societal implications. Students who are chronically absent are at a higher risk of falling behind academically, which can lead to decreased graduation rates and limited postsecondary opportunities. This trend disproportionately affects students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, exacerbating existing educational inequalities. The long-term consequences include a less educated workforce, potential increases in unemployment rates, and broader economic ramifications for the state.

Addressing this crisis requires a coordinated effort involving policymakers, educators, parents, and communities to implement effective strategies that promote regular school attendance and support student success.