Reading to an Empty Room: The Impact of Absenteeism on Third-Grade Literacy Achievement

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 7
  In Poster Session: Innovations in Literacy Research, Theory, and Practice: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Reading proficiency at the end of third grade is an important predictor of later academic achievement. Our large, urban district partner launched an initiative in 2014 to ensure all students were reading on grade level by the end of third grade. However, little attention was given to how student absenteeism limits exposure to classroom practices associated with these efforts. We examine the effect of student absenteeism on reading achievement and find that students with five or more absences have lower reading achievement at the end of third grade when compared to students with one or fewer absences. Subsequent analyses will examine the effect of time spent on specific literacy classroom practices and how the effect may vary based on absenteeism.

Authors

• Nehemiah Ankoor, Rice University - Kinder Institute

• Courtney Thrash, Rice University

• Erin Baumgartner, Rice University - Kinder Institute