A high school student in Iowa is pushing for changes to a law aimed at reducing chronic absenteeism. According to the Iowa Department of Education, 21% of students were absent more than 10% of the school year last year, with higher rates among English learners, low-income students, and those with disabilities.
This year, a new law was introduced to tackle chronic absenteeism. It requires schools to take action if students miss certain amounts of school: if they miss 10% of school, the district must notify the county attorney and families; at 15%, the district must create an action plan; and at 20%, the student is considered truant, and the county attorney will enforce attendance.
The law has been criticized for not differentiating between excused and unexcused absences. Now, districts have some discretion in reporting cases to county attorneys.
Isabella Wedge, a student from Sioux City’s East High School, argues that the law unfairly treats students as guilty until proven innocent, creating unnecessary legal costs. She believes the law doesn’t address the root causes of absenteeism, calling it a Band-Aid solution.
Vickie Murillo, Superintendent of Council Bluffs Community Schools, agrees that the law needs clarification, especially regarding medical absences. She also notes that districts lack sufficient support for students with chronic absenteeism, often relying on outside agencies to help after exhausting other efforts. Her district has launched a campaign, Attend Today. Achieve More Tomorrow! to improve attendance and raise awareness.