Nevada Department of EducationNevada Department of Education

Chronic Absenteeism

Overview

The Nevada Department of Education believes that:

  • Attendance is a critical component of educational equity, ensuring all students can access the resources and support needed for educational success.
  • The connection between student attendance and learning is clear: a missed school day is a lost opportunity for students to learn.

Nevada Department of Education Guidance Memo

Definition

A student is absent if they are not physically on school grounds and are not participating in instruction or instruction-related activities at an approved off-grounds location for the school day.

  • Chronically absent students include students who are absent for any reason (e.g., illness, suspension, the need to care for a family member), regardless of whether absences are excused or unexcused.
  • Students who are absent 10% or more of their enrolled school days are considered chronically absent.
Candace Bortolin

Interim Director, Office for a Safe and Respectful Learning Environment

Anabel Sanchez

Education Programs Professional Office of Educator Development, Licensure, and Family Engagement (EDLiFE)