David Smith

Tara Carman, a senior reporter with CBC’s investigative unit, shares exclusive data revealing a troubling rise in student absenteeism in Canada. Natasha McBrary, a researcher at the University of Ottawa, discusses the complex causes, including mental health and support gaps for diverse learning needs. Psychologist David Smith highlights the peak bullying rates in middle school and its impact on attendance. Together, they explore the challenging landscape where high absenteeism links to both social and educational issues, emphasizing the need for better support systems.