Bridgeport launches Attendance Task Force to curb absenteeism [Video]

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Bridgeport Public Schools has created the Attendance Task Force to reduce chronic absenteeism and improve student outcomes, according to a release from the district Friday.

The task force was established earlier this month to unite district leaders, school administrators, parents, educators and community organizations working to develop strategies to curb chronic absenteeism and facilitate student success.

The district reports that 29% of its students are currently chronically absent, and the greatest challenges are being faced in the city’s high schools. The task force will attempt to lower chronic absenteeism rates to pre-COVID-19 levels, which were 19%.

If successful, the task force will address Bridgeport’s barriers to attendance, improve student engagement and strengthen partnerships between the school and community.

“This task force represents a collaborative effort to ensure every student has the opportunity …