COLUMBIA, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- New data shows the number of South Carolina students who missed classes two years ago is dropping, but not by much.

Top education officials say it's been an issue since COVID-19 closed schools five years ago.

"School is not the same if you're not present, and we can't learn if we don't hear the information right," says Education Committee Oversight Chair April Allen.

Chronic absenteeism occurs when a student misses 10% or more of their school days in one academic year.

Last year, the state's chronic absenteeism rate was at 22.3%, a slight drop from 22.5% in 2023. In 2022, it was 25%.

South Carolina Education Association President Dena Crews works at an elementary school.

"We found a way to work with our parents and guardians and family members so t

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