A More Complete Picture of School Absenteeism
October 18, 2024
• Members of the Needham School Committee share their concerns about certain subgroups of students having more unexcused absences at their meeting on October 15, 2024.
While the Needham Public Schools have always been concerned with maintaining a high attendance rate, an extra emphasis has been placed upon it in recent years. With the state tracking rates and labelling some trends as “chronic absenteeism”, the Needham school committee asked the district to report on what has been happening in the years since the pandemic. Hearing different breakdowns by grade and school population, the school committee are seeking fair policies and practices to help engage Needham students. Municipal Producer Yuxiao Yuan reports.
More Stories
Olin Eyes New Beginning, Explores AI
September 28, 2026 • As the newly installed president of the college, R. May Lee takes on risks and promises...
In Wake of Local Tragedy, Organizations Lend Support, Resources
September 21, 2026 • As the Needham community navigates loss, local support organizations offer guidance and services for students and...
School Athletics Confront Challenging Financial Future
September 21, 2026 • The Needham Public Schools' athletics program has been reliant on its revolving fund reserves to combat increased...
Pondering Paying for Pollard: New Tax Calculator, State Grant
September 10, 2026 • A vote on funding the proposed Pollard rebuild, which would also move sixth graders into the...
State Pledges Funding for Pollard Project
August 27, 2026 • In an anticipated but welcome move, the Massachusetts School Building Authority committed to a partial reimbursement...
At Needham Science Center, Discoveries are Elementary
August 20, 2026 • Gearing up for back-to-school, the center organized science kits for elementary students that will support their...

