Number of school truants in the northeast has recently increased - Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Sees Rise in Chronic School Truancy
The number of chronic school truants in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern has risen, with a notable increase in the 2024/2025 school year. This represents a small but concerning rise in absenteeism among students. In the latest school year, 446 cases were recorded at general schools, up from around 372 cases the previous year. Including vocational schools, the figures rose from 411 to 506 cases. This increase, though small in absolute numbers, represents a rise from 0.24% to 0.29% of the overall student population. Causes of chronic absenteeism can vary, including psychological stress, family crises, academic overload, or a lack of sense of belonging. Truancy carries significant risks, such as missing important learning content, losing touch with classmates, and potentially failing to graduate. Procedures for managing school absenteeism can differ depending on the student's age and the type of school. The rise in chronic school truancy in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, though small in percentage terms, is a cause for concern. Schools and local authorities are urged to investigate the causes and implement strategies to support students at risk of long-term absence.