Quebec Faces Surge in School Absenteeism Amid Rising Anxiety

School absenteeism is reaching alarming levels across Canada, particularly in Quebec, where recent data highlights significant increases in both elementary and secondary school absences. The surge in unexcused absences, attributed to a combination of mental health challenges, bullying, and socio-economic pressures, has prompted concerns among educators and community organizations.

Lily Boucher Rodriguez, a 17-year-old student, exemplifies the struggles many young people face. After nearly two years of sporadic attendance, she withdrew from school entirely due to overwhelming anxiety and bullying. “I was skipping [classes] in the bathroom because I was really anxious about everything and about people,” she explained. Rodriguez eventually found support at L’Ancre des Jeunes, a community organization in Montreal’s Verdun borough. There, she is receiving personalized assistance aimed at re-engaging with her studies in a non-judgmental environment.

According to data obtained by CBC News, absenteeism rates have grown substantially across Canadian schools in recent years. In Montreal, the Centre de services scolaire de Montréal (CSSDM) reported an 85 percent increase in unexcused absences in elementary schools from the 2018-2019 academic year to 2024-2025. High schools have seen even steeper declines, with unexcused absences rising by 108 percent during the same period. Alarmingly, over 30 percent of CSSDM high school students were classified as “chronically absent,” missing more than 10 percent of the school year.

Factors Contributing to Rising Absenteeism

Educational experts and professionals are pointing to a range of factors driving this trend. Florence Fontaine, a program co-ordinator at L’Ancre des Jeunes, noted that many of the children accessing their services have missed extensive periods of school, often due to mental health issues or bullying. “The system is not equipped to adapt to their learning process,” Fontaine stated, highlighting a critical gap in support for vulnerable students.

In Quebec City, the Centre de Services Scolaire de la Capitale (CSSC) reported a staggering 446 percent increase in elementary school absences during the same timeframe, accompanied by a 15 percent rise in the number of students. High schools in that district experienced a 107 percent increase in absences, while the student population grew by only 38 percent.

The societal impact of the ongoing pandemic has exacerbated these issues. Rachelle Doucet, a guidance counselor at LaSalle Community Comprehensive High School in Montreal, expressed concern over the growing anxiety among students. “Parents are very tired. They don’t really want to be hounding their kid to get to school,” she explained, suggesting that many parents may find it easier to allow their children to stay home.

Additionally, the rising cost of living is placing pressure on families, with some students needing to work longer hours to help support their households. Doucet pointed out that the retail and restaurant industries are increasingly relying on younger workers, which can lead to conflicts with school attendance.

Calls for Systemic Change and Community Support

The lack of resources within the education system is another factor contributing to rising absenteeism. Steven Shaw, a professor of educational and counselling psychology at McGill University, emphasized the importance of creating safe environments for students. However, he noted that the shortage of school nurses, counselors, and psychologists often leaves students without necessary support.

In response to the growing crisis, the Quebec Ministry of Education acknowledged the challenges faced by students and announced the hiring of an additional 4,000 support staff for elementary schools. Despite these efforts, a recent report from the Institut du Québec (IDQ) highlighted that provincial annual expenses per student have risen by 43 percent since 2018, yet questions remain about whether these investments are effectively addressing the issues.

Community organizations like L’Ancre des Jeunes are playing an increasingly vital role in supporting students. Sixteen-year-old Sarah Lavoie, who attends programming at the organization, has expressed her desire to help others who are struggling. After feeling overwhelmed and withdrawing from school, Lavoie is now focused on building her confidence to return and pursue a career in intervention work.

The increasing rates of absenteeism highlight an urgent need for a collaborative approach to education that involves families, communities, and government entities. As the school year progresses, addressing the root causes of absenteeism will be essential in supporting students and ensuring their academic success.