Isaiah Fudge, Director of Positive Youth Development Policy and Advocacy at Advocates for Children of New Jersey, presented testimony to the Senate Education Committee addressing chronic absenteeism in schools. Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more of school days, has been a persistent issue in New Jersey. In the 2013-14 school year, 125,000 students were identified as chronically absent. This prompted the Department of Education to involve ACNJ in reviewing and highlighting the problem.
Fudge shared that poverty and socioeconomic factors are significant contributors to absenteeism. He noted disparities between wealthy and poor districts; for instance, Haddonfield schools have a 4.7% absenteeism rate compared to Camden's 40.7%. "The poverty surrounding the schools in the poorest districts creates barriers to youth attendance," he stated.
The pandemic exacerbated absenteeism rates nationwide. As of 2022-23, New Jersey's rate was 16.6%, with over 219,000 students missing substantial school time. Fudge emphasized that many families lack awareness about chronic absenteeism and its impact.
Fudge proposed solutions including transforming schools into resource hubs through full-service community school models which integrate student supports and engage families. "Bringing resources into schools brings kids back to school," he said. He highlighted successes in Orange Public Schools and Dover Public Schools where such models have reduced absenteeism rates.
He also advocated for increased socio-emotional character development resources within schools to address safety issues and mental health needs. Examples from Clayton Public Schools and Elizabeth Public Schools showed progress through these efforts.
Additionally, Fudge suggested repurposing Attendance Counselors to provide proactive support rather than enforcing truancy measures. Newark Public Schools' approach has led to a reduction in district-wide chronic absenteeism.
To improve awareness, Fudge recommended monitoring how information on chronic absenteeism is shared with families by schools. He urged updating policies to clearly define chronic absenteeism and outline remediation pathways.
Fudge concluded by expressing his willingness to collaborate further on combating this issue: "I am looking forward to working with everyone to continue to combat this issue."
