Chronic absenteeism in schools, defined as missing over 10% of school days, has significantly increased since the pandemic and remains a persistent issue in Ontario and across the Western world. In an effort to address this, the Ontario government announced a new policy in April that will link attendance to grades for secondary school students, set to be implemented in the fall. Education Minister Paul Calandra emphasized that this policy aims to enhance classroom management and better prepare students for real-world responsibilities. Data shows that only 40% of secondary school students in Ontario met the attendance standard of 90% in the 2024-25 school year, a decline from 60% pre-pandemic. Similarly, 55% of elementary students met this standard, down from 70%. The trend of chronic absenteeism is observed globally, with many countries reporting significant increases since COVID-19.
Why It Matters
School attendance is a critical factor in academic success, as numerous studies demonstrate that it correlates with student engagement and proficiency in essential skills like reading. Historical data shows that absenteeism can lead to long-term educational challenges, with chronically absent students more likely to continue missing classes in subsequent years. For instance, an OECD report highlights that many learners worldwide are struggling to re-engage with school post-pandemic, prompting concerns among educators and policymakers. In Ontario, the extended school closures during the pandemic contributed to the decline in attendance rates, illustrating the impact of disruptions on students’ educational trajectories.
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