Chronic absenteeism is reaching alarming levels in schools across the country. Nearly 30% of students are now considered chronically absent—meaning they miss 10% or more of the school year. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a crisis that impacts academic performance, school funding, and, most importantly, student well-being.
Students often don’t skip school because they don’t care—they’re disengaged, disconnected, or struggling socially and emotionally. To reverse this trend, schools need strategies that build connection, belonging, and relevance. That’s where Music Workshop comes in.
Music Workshop offers a free, culturally responsive music curriculum that helps schools:
- Boost attendance and meet district benchmarks
- Engage students emotionally and culturally through music that reflects their identities and interests
- Support social-emotional learning and cultural inclusion
- Empower teachers to create meaningful, inclusive classroom experiences
- Celebrate diversity and create safe, welcoming spaces
- Strengthen school climate and community trust
The power of music to build community, spark curiosity, and foster empathy is well documented. Research shows that arts education improves attendance, reduces behavioral issues, strengthens social-emotional learning, and supports academic success.
Music Workshop’s curriculum is evidence-based, easy to implement, and completely free to schools. We also offer professional development to help educators bring these benefits into the classroom with confidence and creativity.
When students feel seen, heard, and connected, they show up. Music is a powerful way to make that happen. By embracing engaging, inclusive approaches like Music Workshop, schools can rebuild strong learning communities that motivate students to return—and stay—in the classroom.
Let’s use music to reconnect students, reimagine school culture, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.