How OKCPS Is Improving Chronic Absenteeism Amid Nation’s Growing School Absences

Oklahoma City Public Schools is dealing with a problem from the pandemic. The district has changed this trend by tackling barriers and offering incentives to bring kids back to the classroom. 

The story at Oklahoma City’s Cleveland Elementary features lessons learned through teamwork. For nine years, Leslie Davis has held the seat at the top of her class. “They’re so fun,” Davis said. “I’ve loved it so much.” You get to see them experience life.” 

Of course, her first-grade students are the main characters. “They love to learn new things,” Davis said. “They’re curious.” 

Consequences from the pandemic linger at times. Davis said it has taken time to bring back a pre-pandemic school environment. “The kids have changed,” Davis said. “Environments have changed.” 

The American Enterprise Institute found from 2019 to 2022 -- chronic absenteeism jumped from 15 percent to 28 percent. Oklahoma saw a slight increase. 

Director of community outreach at the OKCPS Foundation Abbie Vaughan said they’re flipping the script. “Improving attendance is one of the greatest needs,” Vaughan said. “We’re able to meet students where they’re at. Over twelve hundred students that improved their absenteeism.” 

The OKCPS foundation provides incentives to students with good attendance. Vaughan’s nephew won a prize for his attendance. “Help give them motivation to show up to school every day,” Vaughan said. “It’s extra special for me to see him growing and thriving.” 

Students thriving inside a classroom Davis said is a familiar chapter. “The safety of schools is back,” Davis said. 

Davis said this is the part of the story where everyone grows together. “They still deserve the best and that’s what we’re here for,” Davis said. 

OKCPS said students’ presence in school is vital to their reading progress. The district said it monitors students to get ahead of potential chronic absenteeism.