Recent studies show that too many Maryland students are missing from schools because of suspensions, prolonged absences or truancy. A lot of these students won't stay the course until graduation. That shouldn't be tolerated when a high school diploma is considered essential for employment as well as for higher education.

An analysis released last month by Advocates for Children and Youth, a Maryland-based group, found that the state's overall suspension rate in 2006-2007 was 9 percent, the second-highest rate on record. The biggest increases occurred in Prince George's and Baltimore counties, but Baltimore also showed a slight increase over the previous school year.

Equally disturbing were studies highlighted by the Open Society Institute showing high levels of absenteeism in Baltimore schools. During the 2006-2007 academic year, 14 percent of students in elementary school, 33.7 percent in middle school and 43.5 percent in high school were absent 20 or more days. While students can be excused for absences because of illness, death in the family, religious observance, suspension and other reasons, unexcused absences constitute truancy. At 9 percent, Baltimore's truancy rate was the highest in the state last year.

Regardless of the reasons, the consequences of students being out of school - from lack of education and job opportunities to potential criminal activity - can be disastrous. Parents need to understand that each day's lesson is important, providing a stepping stone to the next level. Schools need to ensure that students are engaged and made to feel part of a learning community that notices when they are absent, with or without leave. Phone trees, truancy courts and workshops, family case managers and other approaches have helped reduce absenteeism.

Out-of-school suspensions should be avoided and more academic and support services should be provided to help students succeed. To that end, the General Assembly is considering a sensible bill that would require districts to use proven programs such as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports in schools with high truancy rates.

The more students who stay in school, the better for them and for Maryland.