Newark’s chronic absenteeism rate drops to 8.5%. Here’s what district leaders say is working.
Newark Public Schools reported the lowest chronic absenteeism rate in its history at 8.5% for the 2025-26 school year. The rate has steadily decreased over the past several years, with improvements seen across all student groups. District leaders credit changes in how absenteeism is calculated and ongoing efforts to support student attendance.
Newark Public Schools saw a significant drop in chronic absenteeism, reaching a historic low of 8.5% for the 2025-26 school year. The decline followed changes in how absenteeism is measured and ongoing efforts to improve attendance.
Lower absenteeism can lead to better academic outcomes and student success. The improvement shows progress in addressing long-standing challenges and highlights the impact of policy changes and targeted support.
The story shows measurable progress in a large urban school district, offering a positive example of how policy adjustments and focused efforts can lead to meaningful improvements in student attendance and learning.
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