Nebraska Department of Education reports drop in chronic absenteeism across majority of counties

The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) has released data indicating a decrease in chronic absenteeism across the state. The report covers the 2021-22 through 2024-25 school years and highlights that 66 out of Nebraska’s 93 counties, or about 70 percent, have seen reductions in chronic absenteeism among students.

“These reductions are the product of strong partnerships and a lot of hard work among parents, school leaders, teachers, and community members who are working together to help more of our children show up for school every day,” said Dr. Brian Maher, Nebraska Commissioner of Education.

The department noted that several counties achieved double-digit decreases in chronic absenteeism rates, attributing these results to targeted strategies implemented at the local level. The NDE pointed to varied approaches tailored by communities as key factors behind the improvements.

According to the NDE, these outcomes support the State Board of Education’s goal to reduce chronic absenteeism by half within five years. The department is encouraging communities to continue using these strategies in order to further improve student attendance statewide.