Attendance

More than 1 in 4 children across the Lehigh Valley miss more than 18 days of school each year. That’s roughly 2 days per month, 10% of the school year, and about a month of lost learning opportunity.

Missing 10% or more of the school year is considered chronic absence, regardless of whether those absences are excused, unexcused or the result of a suspension. For students, the impact can add up quickly. Chronic absence is associated with difficulty learning to read by third grade, falling behind academically in middle school and being less likely to graduate from high school.

The reasons students miss school are often bigger than simply not wanting to be in the classroom. Health challenges, transportation issues, unsafe routes to school and food insecurity can all make it harder for students and families to maintain consistent, every day attendance.

When students have reliable access to essential resources, families have one less barrier to navigate. Students can arrive at school ready to learn, focus in the classroom and build the skills they need for success.

Through investments in programs that connect children and families with food and other critical resources, United Way helps address the barriers that can keep students from showing up and succeeding in school. By working with local partners to bring resources closer to where families live, learn and work, United Way is helping create the conditions students need to attend school consistently and thrive.