Florida bill seeks to address chronic absenteeism in schools

ORLANDO, Fla. – A new bill introduced in the Florida Legislature aims to tackle the growing issue of chronic absenteeism, which has become a major concern for schools across the state.

As absenteeism continues to rise, particularly in local counties, lawmakers are looking for solutions to ensure that students are attending school regularly and receiving the education they deserve.

According to the latest data from the 2023-2024 school year, absenteeism rates are alarmingly high in several counties. In Lake County, 37.7% of students are considered chronically absent, while Marion and Orange counties report 35.2%, Osceola County 34.9%, and Volusia County 34.1%.

These statistics highlight the widespread nature of the problem, with more than a third of students in some areas missing enough school to be classified as chronically absent.

The proposed bill, House Bill 13-67, filed by Representative Erika Booth of Osceola County, seeks to establish a statewide attendance policy and enhance the accountability of both schools and parents. One key provision of the bill is that schools would be required to identify chronically absent students earlier in the school year, allowing for more proactive intervention.

Additionally, the bill mandates four attendance reports per year and requires schools to schedule meetings with parents of chronically absent students. By holding parents more accountable, the bill aims to address absenteeism at its core—ensuring that children are getting the education they need and deserve.

Dr. Jordan Rodriguez, an education expert, believes the proposed bill is a step in the right direction.

“The fact that state legislators are taking notice of chronic absenteeism is a massive win because it is a huge problem,” Dr. Rodriguez explained.

He emphasized that parents, especially at the elementary and middle school levels, play a critical role in ensuring their children attend school regularly. He also pointed out that while circumstances vary, education remains the most significant path out of difficult situations, making regular school attendance a top priority.

Dr. Rodriguez further stressed that schools need to establish reasonable disincentives to encourage attendance.

“You can’t allow excuses to find a way,” Dr. Rodriguez said.

The bill is still under debate in the Florida Legislature, with lawmakers working to finalize the details. If passed, the new attendance requirements could take effect as early as the next school year, setting a clear framework for tackling chronic absenteeism in Florida schools.

As the debate continues, both parents and schools will need to adapt to new expectations aimed at improving student attendance and overall educational outcomes across the state.