California State PTA Education Commission
When students attend school consistently, their educational outcomes are better. Unfortunately, some students are absent 10% or more of the school year, making them chronically absent. According to the California Department of Education, research shows that students who are chronically absent are less likely to read proficiently by third grade, perform well in middle school, and graduate from high school (Balfanz and Byrnes 2012; Chang and Romero 2008). Chronic absence disproportionately impacts specific student populations, including students with disabilities, foster and homeless youth, socioeconomically disadvantaged students, English learners, and certain racial and ethnic groups (Chavez and Hough 2025).
California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond, recently announced the release of the California Attendance Guide, an online resource that provides proven, actionable strategies for every school, district, and county office of education across the state. He stated, “Due to historic investments in student supports and family engagement, California has cut TK–12 chronic absenteeism levels by one-third, from 30% in 2022 to 20% in 2024. We are on track and committed to reduce chronic absence by 50 percent over five years. Our Community Schools approach is working: When we address the needs of the whole family, our students are able to show up to school.” Read State Superintendent Thurmond’s full statement here.
The California Attendance Guide recognizes that in order to continue to reduce chronic absenteeism, these three things need to improve:
- Health, well-being, and safety – Students attend school when they are physically and emotionally healthy as well as when they feel safe and supported.
- Family engagement – Students attend school when they and their families are actively engaged as partners in advancing learning and overcoming barriers to getting to school.
- Student connectedness – Students attend school when they are connected to a caring adult and peers, engaged in prosocial activities, and feel a sense of belonging (Attendance Works 2019, 2025).
PTA plays a vital role in supporting student attendance by actively addressing these core factors.
California State PTA advocates for policies that ensure that children and youth feel safe, supported, and included on our school campuses. They also advocate for policies that support their mental and physical health. Many local PTAs organize health fairs, field days, and health-focused assemblies.
PTA builds strong connections between families and schools. By encouraging meaningful involvement, PTA empowers parents and caregivers to become active participants and partners in their children’s education.
PTA-sponsored programs such as Reflections, field trips, family nights, and assemblies, foster a sense of belonging and community within schools. These experiences help students feel valued, supported, and connected to caring adults and peers. Students feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves, motivating them to show up and participate.
Together, through ongoing collaboration and a shared commitment to student well-being, we can ensure that every student not only attends school, but feels seen, supported, and ready to excel.