absenteeism

“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.

More than 4,000 pupils with the very highest rates of absenteeism are currently referred to specialists for help but it is unclear how many of these are linked to "emotionally based school avoidance".

Estyn said issues such as absenteeism, vaping, lateness and social media misuse were "widespread" and students still struggled with the effects of the Covid pandemic on their social skills and resilience.