LEXINGTON, Ky. — Fayette County Public Schools is emphasizing the critical importance of regular school attendance, warning families that missing just two days per month can result in losing 1.5 years of learning by high school graduation.

The district released guidance on attendance highlighting how each absence puts students behind academically and makes it harder for them to catch up. The push comes as chronic absenteeism remains a statewide challenge, with nearly 28 percent of Kentucky students classified as chronically absent last school year.

The state defines chronic absenteeism as missing 10 percent or more of the school year, which equates to approximately two days monthly. FCPS data shows the district has improved its attendance rate to 92.4 percent in the 2023-24 school year, up from 91.25 percent in 2021-22, though challenges persist districtwide.

To build strong attendance habits, FCPS encourages families to establish good sleep routines, schedule appointments outside school hours, avoid vacations during the academic year, and work with school staff to understand attendance options when absences are necessary. The district also recommends families connect with Family Resource Centers or Youth Services Centers for additional support and resources.

The Kentucky Department of Education has set an ambitious goal to reduce the state's chronic absenteeism rate to 15 percent by the end of the 2028-29 school year. FCPS has reviewed its attendance policies and continues to work with families on this critical issue.