HARRISBURG – The Senate Education Committee held a public hearing on Monday, May 12, to examine the growing issue of chronic absenteeism and truancy in Pennsylvania schools and explore policy solutions to improve student attendance and long-term success.
The hearing featured testimony from a wide range of professionals, including representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the American Enterprise Institute, school counselors and administrators, magisterial district judges, and human services officials from Allegheny County.
Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27), who chairs the Senate Education Committee, thanks the testifiers for their insight and emphasized the importance of continued focus on the issue.
“Chronic absenteeism is often a sign that a student is facing challenges beyond the classroom—whether it’s family instability, health concerns, or a lack of school engagement. Solving this issue requires early intervention, flexibility, and collaboration between schools, courts, and community-based services.”
During the hearing, testifiers highlighted successful models like Allegheny County’s Adjudication Alternative program, which connects families to supportive resources as an alternative to court involvement. The importance of school counseling programs and proactive communication with families was also emphasized.
“We need to equip schools with the tools and support systems to reach students early—before a pattern of absenteeism turns into long-term disengagement. This hearing was a meaningful step in understanding what’s working across Pennsylvania and where we can do more.”
Culver said that input gathered during the hearing will inform future legislative efforts aimed at reducing absenteeism, supporting schools and families, and ensuring students have every opportunity to succeed.
A full recording of the hearing is available at www.pasenategop.com.
Contact:
Sam Clepper
717-787-8928