New York City schools to deploy liaisons to combat chronic absenteeism

New York City schools are implementing a new program to combat chronic absenteeism by deploying “school avoidance liaisons.” This initiative follows data showing that 33% of students were chronically absent during the 2024-25 school year, missing at least 10% of their classes. The issue is particularly acute among disabled students, with a 43% chronic absenteeism rate reported.

The liaisons will be existing full-time staff members, including teachers, guidance counselors, administrators, or social workers, who will take on these responsibilities without additional pay. Their primary role is to intervene early with at-risk families and connect them with mental health resources and other school-based supports to encourage classroom attendance. School-avoidant behaviors are frequently linked to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, as well as disabilities.

The program was established as part of a settlement following a 2024 class-action lawsuit filed by families of chronically absent disabled students. The lawsuit alleged that the city failed to provide sufficient resources to keep students with disabilities and mental health challenges engaged in school. Principals are required to submit their selections for these liaison roles by September 30.