absenteeism

Many parents disagree — especially parents of children in kindergarten and transitional kindergarten, who have the highest rates of chronic absenteeism statewide — as well as the germiest hands, snottiest noses and least developed immune systems.

Attendance is far from fully recovered as chronic absenteeism remains high.

“State leaders say they care about reducing chronic absenteeism and keeping kids in school — but reducing vaccinations does the opposite, putting our children’s health and education at risk,” the statement said.

A recent symposium at the American Enterprise Institute, where scholars shared research on the problem of widespread absenteeism, offered insights into the nationwide issue.

In the Los Angeles Unified district, some teachers have reported increased absenteeism.