Seattle Schools See Spike in Absences for Seahawks Parade

District estimates over 12,000 student absences and hundreds more staff absences for Super Bowl victory celebration.

Feb. 11, 2026 at 11:15pm

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As the city of Seattle celebrated the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory with a parade, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) recorded an estimated 12,697 student absences as of the start of the school day. While student attendance was significantly higher than usual, over 38,000 students are estimated to have still attended school. SPS also saw 663 staff absences, several hundred more than normal. Central office staff were deployed to provide additional support at schools.

Why it matters

School attendance is an important metric for districts, as high absenteeism can impact student learning and funding. The Seahawks parade represented a major community event that drew many students and staff away from school, highlighting the challenge districts face in balancing school obligations with allowing students and staff to participate in civic celebrations.

The details

SPS initially had a policy of no excused absences for the parade, but later allowed principals to decide how to handle it. The district's initial estimates suggest student attendance was slightly better than during the 2014 Super Bowl parade, though SPS enrollment has decreased by over 2,000 students since then.

  • The Seahawks' Super Bowl victory parade took place on February 12, 2026.
  • SPS recorded the estimated 12,697 student absences as of the start of the school day on February 12, 2026.
  • There were 663 staff absences recorded as of 2:30 p.m. on February 12, 2026.

The players

Seattle Public Schools (SPS)

The public school district serving the city of Seattle, Washington.

Ben Shuldiner

The superintendent of Seattle Public Schools.

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What they’re saying

“As Seattle celebrated the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory parade today, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) recorded an estimated 12,697 student absences as of the start of the school day today. While student absences were significantly higher than usual, over 38,000 students are estimated to have attended school today for teaching, learning, connection, and to receive the many other services our schools provide.”

— Seattle Public Schools (westseattleblog.com)

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenge school districts face in balancing the educational needs of students with allowing them to participate in important community events. While high absenteeism can impact student learning and funding, districts must also recognize the value in allowing students to engage with their city and celebrate civic milestones.