A recent report from the John Hopkins University School of Education says Michigan ranks third in the country for school districts with chronic absenteeism.

Nationwide, chronic absenteeism is about 13% and Michigan stands at 18%.

However, Big Rapids Public School Board President Pete Kent says it's not an issue here.

“I haven't heard one thing about absenteeism as far as students or teachers, either one. So, if it was an issue, we'd know about it.”

A student who misses 15 days of school a year for any reason is considered chronically absent, whether or not the absence is excused.

Kent says there are no reports of chronic absenteeism at any of the Big Rapids Public Schools.