CLEVELAND — Ohio has updated its school attendance laws because the state says chronic absenteeism is an urgent issue.

While trending downward in recent years, Ohio’s chronic absenteeism rate is 25.1%. The state wants to cut that number in half over the next five years.

They plan to do that by shifting the focus from unexcused absences to supporting early interventions.

Schools are required to put their attendance plan updates into action starting next school year. It is how Metro Catholic School in Cleveland says it has found success.

Chronic absenteeism isn't just a concern for public schools, but chartered non-public schools like Metro Catholic, as well.

Just after 7 a.m., cars start lining up for drop off at Metro Catholic School on Cleveland’s west side.

"Bye, love you," child

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