Even though school attendance is required by the law in D.C., approximately 20 percent of public and charter school children in the District have racked up more than 15 days of unexcused absences.

In Maryland's Montgomery County, teachers and support staff have agreed to give up yearly raises to help close a county budget shortfall.

In Annapolis, the U.S. Naval Academy is hoping to boost efforts to attract minority students.

The Chancellor of D.C.'s Public Schools, Michelle Rhee, says she thinks President-elect Barack Obama's pick for Education Secretary is a good choice.

Skippers, truants and chronic absentees are just a few of the names given to students who cut classes.

Students at KIPP D.C.'s Will Academy are giving back by helping refugees in the Congo and by raising awareness about local issues.