Episode Details

Chronic absenteeism is crushing Pittsburgh Public Schools—32% of students missed 18+ days last year. With school back in session, community groups like A+ Schools are hitting the streets in neighborhoods like Arlington, handing out backpacks, rides, and food to help kindergartners get to class. Schools like Westinghouse and Perry are hit hardest, with over half their students chronically absent—and the data’s clear: better attendance means better test scores. The district’s rolling out a “house system” inspired by Hogwarts, where students earn points for showing up and doing well, boosting school spirit and behavior. Thanks to outreach efforts, absenteeism has dropped 15% since the pandemic—but they’re still working to recover lost ground.

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