​At least 10 percent of kindergartners and first graders miss a month of school, absences that can stall their progress in reading and deny them an equal opportunity to learn. Chronic absence flares again in middle and high school. Children from low-income families and communities of color and those with disabilities are disproportionately affected. The report cites a Center study, Unaffordable Dental Care Is Linked to Frequent School Absences, based on 2007 California Health Interview Survey data, to illustrate an example of absence directly tied to a health factor — dental problems. Other health-related absences tied to health include asthma, learning disabilities, and mental health issues related to trauma and community violence. Authors say attendance and its connection to public health must be addressed early in a child’s life to close educational achievement gaps.