Absenteeism in North Carolina Schools: Online Assignments Fall Short

December 25, 2025 - 12:18

Missing too much school could hurt a student's test scores, no matter the school they attend, according to researchers who studied data from North Carolina schools. The findings highlight a growing concern regarding absenteeism, which has been exacerbated by the transition to online learning during recent years. While online assignments were introduced as a solution to keep students engaged during periods of absence, researchers found that these digital interventions do not effectively compensate for the lack of physical attendance in classrooms.

The study indicates that consistent, in-person participation is crucial for academic success. Students who frequently miss school are at a significant disadvantage, facing challenges in grasping the curriculum and maintaining their performance on standardized tests. This trend raises alarms for educators and policymakers, as it underscores the need for more comprehensive strategies to address absenteeism.

As schools continue to navigate the complexities of modern education, the findings serve as a reminder that solutions must prioritize student attendance to ensure their academic achievements and overall well-being.