One in Four Students Is Chronically Absent 

Currently, about one in four Salt Lake City students is chronically absent. Chronically absent means our kids are missing 18 or more days of school per year. This includes excused absences too. Just two days a month adds up to nearly a full month of lost learning by year’s end.

This isn’t just a local issue. Across Utah, 27% of students were chronically absent in the 2021–22 school year. Among students living in poverty, the number was even higher—37%.

Our Board of Education is committed to reducing chronic absenteeism in our district from 28% to 10% by 2029. This is a collaborative effort, and you can help us by:

• Reaching out for support early. Our school staff are here to help. 
• Talking to your child about the importance of showing up every day. 
• Scheduling family vacations around school breaks. Check the district calendar 
• Building routines at home to support your student getting to school on time. 
• Staying informed about your child’s attendance record. 
• Scheduling doctor appointments after school, if possible. 

Even excused absences count toward chronic absenteeism, so staying engaged matters every step of the way. 

Prioritizing daily school attendance helps your child, and every student in Salt Lake City School District, build a stronger foundation for learning, growth, and long-term success.