Charlotte’s CMS Social Workers Working Tirelessly to Improve Student Attendance

City

As the academic year draws to a close, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) social workers are facing the ongoing challenge of getting students back into the classroom. Chronic absenteeism has long been a concern for the district, particularly among Black, Latino, and low-income students.

Chronic Absenteeism Rates

In 2019, 13% of all CMS students were classified as chronically absent, missing at least 10% of their classes. However, the rates have increased in recent years, with the district-wide chronic absence rate hovering above 23%. High-poverty schools with large populations of English language learners are disproportionately affected.

Factors Affecting Attendance

Factors such as student anxiety, part-time jobs, and the convenience of virtual learning have contributed to the decline in student attendance. Many students, especially in high school, find it more appealing to work for wages rather than attend classes.

Efforts to Improve Attendance

CMS social workers have been actively engaging with families through home visits, phone calls, and text messages to address absenteeism. Street teams have been deployed to locate hard-to-reach students and provide support to families.

Challenges and Solutions

Addressing chronic absenteeism requires a multi-faceted approach, including creating alternative schedules and offering flexible learning options. CMS is exploring initiatives like truancy mediation programs to intervene early and prevent prolonged absences.

Legal Measures

When all efforts fail, North Carolina law mandates that after 10 unexcused absences, principals must report cases to the district attorney and Department of Social Services. However, there is a need for more timely and effective interventions to ensure students are back in school promptly.

Looking Ahead

As the district strives to improve chronic absence rates, collaboration between CMS, community agencies, and the legal system is essential. The focus is on implementing proactive strategies that support students and families in prioritizing regular attendance.

Stay tuned for updates on CMS’s efforts to address chronic absenteeism and support student success.