Understanding Absenteeism: Definitions, Causes, and Interventions

• In Event: Roundtable Session 60
  In Roundtable Session: Engaging Families of Children in Primary Grades

Abstract

While the phenomenon of school attrition is well understood and theorized at the secondary and postsecondary levels, research on early (Kindergarten through Grade 3) primary school absence is still emerging. This is of particular concern, as primary school forms the foundation for further schooling. Using open ended interviews, this study examined the definitions and causes of primary school absences, and the range of interventions that students, families, and school staff were exposed to in a large Canadian school district. The results of this study will inform the development of a common definition of school absence and attendance and intervention policies. Further, the range of causes of school absences, combined with the resources, will inform future community-school partnerships.

Authors

• Merlin R. Chatwin, School District No. 36 (Surrey)

• Michelle Johanna Nilson, Simon Fraser University