NATCHEZ — The Natchez-Adams School District is disputing reports released by the Mississippi KIDS COUNT program, which say the NASD has the highest rates of chronic absenteeism for the 2013-14 school year.

The report released by the program said the NASD has an absenteeism rate of 26 percent, ranking it among the highest rates of chronic absenteeism in the state.

The Mississippi KIDS COUNT program defines chronic absenteeism as the percentage of students who missed 10 percent or more of the school year including excused or unexcused absences.

However, NASD Superintendent Frederick Hill said that is not the case as his district observes daily attendance.

“We not only met our goal, but we exceeded it,” Hill said.

Hill reported that the school district has an absenteeism rate close to seven percent, granting the district an attendance rate of more than 93 percent.

“(Hill) pulled last year’s Mississippi Department of Education reports,” NASD public relations coordinator Steven Richardson said. “Those reports show the attendance rate and are a part of our accountability reports.”

Hill also said he has verified the attendance rates at all schools.

“I want to find out exactly where that report came from,” Hill said. “Our attendance rate is much higher. Almost every school is at 98 percent — exceeding the district’s goal of 93 percent, according to last year’s data.”

Hill said the district’s absentee rate is at a seven percent because of rewarding students who attend school regularly.

“That’s something that is unique to every school from the administration and staff,” Hill said. “They are doing recognition programs and giving awards where the students are being recognized for being at school.”

The Mississippi KIDS COUNT program were not available for comment as calls were not returned.