How Carver Students are dealing with the post-pandemic attendance crisis
By: Daisha Rogers
April 8, 2025As schools across the country report record-high student absences, Carver students and staff are facing their own challenges with a growing number of students missing school, and for a wider range of reasons than before.
A half empty classroom on a Wednesday
Carver is seeing a growing trend in student absenteeism, reflecting national concerns over school attendance post-pandemic.
“I missed almost two weeks last quarter because I was just overwhelmed,” Said senior Deja Pearce. “It just began to become too much.”
While some students are absent due to illness, others mention different struggles. An increasing number of students are stating mental health struggles, anxiety, as well as the pressures of balancing school with personal responsibilities as reasons for missing class. The emotional weight of recent years appears to be catching up with many students.
Both Teachers and staff are beginning to notice a clear impact inside the classroom.
“Some days, I have nearly a third of my class out,” Said Mr.repella “It disrupts learning and makes planning really difficult."
With fluctuating attendance, educators are often forced to reteach material or delay lessons, creating challenges for both those who are present and those trying to catch up. The ripple effect can and has lowered overall classroom engagement.
In response, school leadership is working to implement support systems, though the road to improvement may not be a quick fix.
One peer giving advice to another
“We’re trying to identify students who need more support early on,” Said Dr. Johnson. “Sometimes it’s mental health, sometimes it’s family responsibilities.”
Despite the challenges, Some students, are managing to stay consistent and offer advice to peers.
“I try to stay on a routine, even when I'm not feeling it,” Said senior Yazeem Darby-Green. “Otherwise it’s too hard to catch up.”
Yazeem maintains a steady schedule to help him stay afloat academically and emotionally. He encourages others to create small habits to help stay focused, to maintain momentum even on tough days.
“We can’t help students if they’re not here,” Said Mr. Sanchez. “ Showing up really is the first step to success.”
As Carver continues to try and navigate the post-pandemic world, the message from teachers and administrators is clear: attendance is more than just a number, it's the foundation for learning and support.
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