Detroit Public Schools uses cash incentives to combat absenteeism

The Detroit Public Schools Community District is implementing a cash incentive program to combat chronic absenteeism. Under the initiative, high school students can earn $100 for each qualifying week of perfect attendance, totaling up to $1,000 during the program period. Middle school students are eligible to earn $50 per qualifying week.

Early data indicates the program is having an impact. The district reported that approximately 12,800 high school students received at least one reward during the 2025-2026 school year, contributing to a decline in high school chronic absenteeism from 64 percent to 54 percent. The program structure was adjusted based on student feedback to provide shorter reward periods, making the financial goals feel more attainable.

As Detroit sees these results, other districts like Atlanta Public Schools are evaluating similar approaches. While Atlanta has already seen a 3.5 percent reduction in chronic absenteeism through intervention teams and personalized family messaging, the success of Detroit’s direct financial incentives raises questions about the efficacy of monetary rewards versus practical support like transportation in addressing attendance challenges.