Washington’s 5-Year Challenge to Cut Chronic Absenteeism in Half

Contact Information

Washington has joined a nationwide effort—led by Attendance Works, EdTrust, and AEI to cut chronic absenteeism in half over 5 years. OSPI is inviting school districts leaders to join the challenge to reduce chronic absence in Washington from 27% to 14% by 2029.

Chronic absenteeism is defined as a student missing 10% or more of their school days (18 days in a school year) and includes absences that are excused and unexcused.

Registration & Key Information

Participating Districts

Thank you to Washington state Superintendents and Districts for leading this effort! View the growing list of school districts who have joined the challenge:

Washington’s Plan

OSPI and our partners are focusing on a few strategic areas to increase student attendance and engagement. See OSPI Plan: 5-Year Challenge to Cut Chronic Absenteeism in Half.

Washington’s Goal

Washington has set clear goals to reduce chronic absenteeism each year. The chart below shows the baseline rate and the planned reduction over time.

Line chart showing Washington’s chronic absence goals decreasing over time, from 27.3% in 2023–24 to 14.0% in 2028–29. The chart shows a steady reduction each school year.
Line chart showing Washington’s chronic absence goals over time. The rate starts at 27.3% in the 2023–24 school year, which is labeled as the baseline. The goal gradually goes down each year: 25.0% in 2024–25, 22.0% in 2025–26, 19.0% in 2026–27, 16.0% in 2027–28, and 14.0% in 2028–29. This shows a steady plan to reduce chronic absenteeism over several years.

* Data updated with Annual Report Card

District Learning and Success

Regular attendance supports the whole child, strengthens learning, and increases the likelihood of graduation. Learn how districts are improving attendance.

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