Chronic Absenteeism Among Native American Students Remains High
Despite efforts to improve attendance, absenteeism rates for Native American and Alaska Native students remain significantly higher than state averages. In the 2022-2023 school year, half of the 34 states with available data showed rates at least 9 percentage points above average. This issue, worsened by the pandemic, underscores long-standing disparities in education.
Tommy Betom, a 10-year-old from the San Carlos Apache tribe in Arizona, exemplifies the struggle. He missed 40 school days last year, citing bullying and discomfort but is now improving thanks to family support and school interventions.
His grandmother, Ethel Marie Betom, emphasized the importance of education for his future. “I didn’t have everything,” she said, noting the advantages he has, like running water.
Across the San Carlos Unified School District, 76% of students were chronically absent last year. Efforts to improve attendance include outreach by teachers and truancy officers.
Attendance challenges have persisted nationwide, with Native students particularly affected. Historical distrust of public education systems, linked to the U.S. government’s past efforts to dismantle Native culture, contributes to the reluctance of some families.
On-site Services Aid School Attendance
The San Carlos district has introduced care centers offering health and social services, guided by cultural success coaches. Nearly all students are Native, and over half live below the poverty line. Superintendent Deborah Dennison notes that addressing community needs has reduced absenteeism from 76% to 59% this year.
In some states, including Alaska and South Dakota, Native students’ absenteeism rates exceed 50%. Arizona saw an increase in rates among Native students from 22% to 45% over recent years.
Cultural Recognition at Schools
Algodones Elementary in New Mexico, serving predominantly Native American students, closes for Native ceremonial days and offers classes in Keres, a native language. Principal Rosangela Montoya stresses the importance of cultural identity in improving attendance.
Jennifer Tenorio appreciates this focus, noting her son Cameron’s enthusiasm for school, especially in learning his native language.
Improving School Perceptions Through Home Visits
Rice Intermediate School in Arizona has improved communication with Native families by conducting home visits. Principal Nicholas Ferro highlights the importance of these interactions. Lillian Curtis, whose granddaughter attends the school, noted the positive change in student attitudes towards attendance and education.
Efforts to shift how education is perceived, acknowledging past educational policies’ impact, are helping improve both attendance and student morale, according to Superintendent Dennison.
