2023-24 Mississippi K-12 chronic absenteeism rate reaches 24.7%, up from 14% in 2019.

Mississippi's K-12 chronic absenteeism rate has surged, reaching 24.7% in 2023-24, compared to 14% in 2019. The State Auditor's report highlights the economic impact, linking chronic absenteeism to increased dropout, arrest, and social service reliance. Recommendations include modifying school accountability ratings, linking driver's license privileges to attendance, and increasing the number of school attendance officers.