Native American student absenteeism worsens post-pandemic despite school initiatives

Native American students are experiencing higher absenteeism rates, worsened by the pandemic. In the San Carlos Unified School District, chronic absenteeism dropped from 76% to 59% this year, thanks to community-focused initiatives and support services. Schools are addressing challenges like poverty and trauma by providing health care and cultural support. Many Native students face barriers to attendance, including anxiety and unstable living conditions. Efforts to strengthen family connections have been implemented. In New Mexico, Algodones Elementary School has seen similar issues, with two-thirds of students chronically absent. The school emphasizes cultural identity and offers language classes, aiming to improve attendance and student engagement through community involvement.