Student absences drop about 24%, education department reports

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - The state Department of Education reports 243,000 fewer student absences in August and September compared with the same months last year. That is a drop of about 24%.

Senate Bill 2103 took effect this school year and limits students to five excused absences per semester.

Students must get superintendent approval for any absences beyond that number due to special circumstances.

State officials say they are trying to reverse the record-high absence rates seen after COVID-19 and get students back in class so they do not fall behind.

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