Group: School absenteeism a problem

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Experts say chronic absenteeism is a big problem in Indiana, and they're trying to educate parents on the warning signs.

This is when a child misses over 10 percent of school in a year for any reason, both excused and unexcused absences.

The group Indiana Partnerships will release the findings of the first ever statewide study that followed thousands of Hoosier students.

The study tracked their attendance for a six year period.

Jackie Garvey with Indiana Partnerships said this problem crosses all economic lines.

Garvey also suggested steps parents can take if they’re worried about their own kids:

• Make school attendance mandatory
• Stay in communication with the school
• Try to schedule as many appointments as possible after school, like doctor and dentist appointments

The findings from the Indiana study will be released at 10 a.m. Wednesday.