# Cracks in the Foundation: The Association of Physical Condition of School Facilities With Absenteeism and Test Scores in Maryland

## TL;DR

Poor school building conditions in Maryland are linked to higher absenteeism and lower test scores, especially in under-resourced areas with more Black and Hispanic students.

## Contribution

This study identifies a disproportionate impact of poor school infrastructure on marginalized communities and its effect on educational outcomes.

## Key findings

- Students in schools with poor physical conditions had higher absenteeism and lower test scores.
- Black and Hispanic students were more likely to attend schools with poor infrastructure.
- The negative impact was strongest in high socioeconomic deprivation areas.

## Abstract

Poor physical conditions of school facilities are linked to poor health, lower test scores, and higher rates of chronic absenteeism.

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis using data on physical conditions of school facilities, absenteeism, and test scores for 1266 K‐12 school facilities representing 1388 schools (which may share school facilities) in Maryland. We analyzed the results by race and ethnicity of students and by the area deprivation index.

Students in schools in the 10th decile for poor physical conditions experienced significantly higher rates of chronic absenteeism and significantly lower SAT, ACT, and Maryland state test scores. Black and Hispanic students were significantly more likely to attend these schools. The significant association between poor school facility conditions and educational outcomes is limited to communities with high socioeconomic deprivation.

Policymakers should consider investments in school infrastructure in under‐resourced communities to close educational gaps and help every child succeed.

In Maryland communities with high socioeconomic deprivation, poor school facility conditions are associated with greater absenteeism and lower test scores, disproportionately affecting Black and Hispanic children.