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Abstract

Student absenteeism has increased in the U.S. and globally, while food insecurity remains a widespread challenge. This study examines the relationship between food insecurity and student absence using ecological systems theory and multilevel zero-inflated Poisson regression on data from approximately half a million students in 65 countries from the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). Findings reveal a strong association between food insecurity and absenteeism, with the most food-insecure students missing school at significantly higher rates. In the U.S., a one-unit increase in food insecurity is linked to an 8% increase in absences, a consistent pattern internationally. While causality cannot be determined, results highlight food insecurity as a possible barrier to attendance and a broader indicator of economic hardship. Addressing food insecurity within and beyond school settings may mitigate absenteeism, particularly in nations with high levels of both challenges, such as the U.S.

Keywords

chronic absenteeism educational equity food insecurity student absenteeism

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Food Insecurity and Student Absence in the US and Across the Globe

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Keywords

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