Student-athletes more likely to attend school than peers, new research finds

""Kids show up to school when they feel connected to adults, peers and are engaged in something meaningful," said Hedy Chang, chief executive of Attendance Works."

"Chronic absenteeism peaked at 28.6 percent in 2022 and then began falling, but it remains well above pre-pandemic levels."

Research indicates that student-athletes are less likely to skip school compared to their peers, even during the offseason. Coaches often require attendance for participation in sports, contributing to higher attendance rates among varsity athletes. A positive school climate and strong relationships with adults and peers are linked to improved attendance. Chronic absenteeism, exacerbated by the pandemic, remains a significant issue, with 22.7 percent of students chronically absent in the 2024-2025 school year.

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