Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic Absenteeism is defined by the NJDOE as student absences for more than 10% of the days enrolled.  As of the 2023-24 school year, the Greenwich Township School District has been placed on a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) being above the 10% allowance.  Our chronic absenteeism last year peaked at 15.9 % which equates to approximately 100 students who were absent more than 10 % of the school year last year.  

The compulsory education law (N.J.S.A. 18A:38-28 through 31) requires all children between the ages of 6-16 to attend school. 

In order for students to learn and achieve their fullest potential, it is critical that they are in school and engaged in the learning process. Research shows that student absences impact a child’s ability to succeed in school. In addition, there is evidence that chronic absenteeism from school is a primary cause of low academic achievement and a powerful predictor of a student’s risk of dropping out of school. 

Based upon our CAP, we will be conducting a brief survey for parents gaining insight on our students absenteeism reasons and how to proactively address this issue in our schools. 

More information about Chronic Absenteeism:

  1. Although the districts marks illness called in by a parent or a doctor's note as "excused" for the State of NJ it is not an excused absence.  "Excused" in Genesis means you have called to let the district know of your child's illness.
  2. The only state approved excused absences are as follows:
                           • Religious observance (N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.3(h)); 

                           • A college visit (up to 3 days per school year for students in grades 11 and 12); 

                           • “Take Our Children to Work Day” or other rule issued by the Commissioner; 

                           • Participation in observance of Veterans Day (N.J.S.A. 18A: 36-13.2) or district board of election membership activities (N.J.S.A. 18A: 36-33); or 

                           • The closure of a busing district that prevents a student from having transportation to the receiving school.  

This survey is completely anonymous and will assist us in developing the appropriate plan to address this area of concern.

Thank you for your input as it is critical to our growth and development. For more information on this topic please visit: https://www.nj.gov/education/safety/sandp/attendance/




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What are the main reasons your child has been absent from school this year or last year? *
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If your child has been absent due to illness which of the following apply... *
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Are there any other factors that contribute to your child's absenteeism?  Write N/A if not applicable. *
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What, if any, challenges do you face in getting your child to school?
Which of the following are you aware of... *
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Other information regarding student absences you would like to include.
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