Why are teens missing so much school? In recent years, chronic absenteeism among students has become a pressing concern, especially with its stark rise since the onset of the pandemic. Defined as missing at least 10% of school days, this issue has significant implications for academic success and overall well-being.  But what’s causing students to miss so much school? What are we missing? We all need to work together to help teens succeed. Here's how.  Also in this episode: What is fanfiction and why are teens so crazy about it? How are fan edits being used, especially on TikTok? . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - USAToday: Interested in fan fiction? Here’s what you need to know to start. - Bark: What is Fan Fiction? Here’s Why Kids Are Going Wild for Online Stories - Fanfic Sites: fanfiction.net | Archive of Our Own Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts - Vox: Why so many kids are still missing school - Teen Life Podcast: Parasocial Relationships . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann . . 00:00 Introduction 00:43 Fan Fiction 05:06 Fan Fiction and Popular Books 09:28 Cautionary Notes about Fan Fiction 11:08 Fan Edits 15:23 School Absences 16:00 Factors Contributing to Absences 19:06 The Consequences of Absences 20:36 Understanding the Reasons Behind Absences 23:24 The Consequences of Skipping School --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teenlifepodcast/support