In a significant shift, Japanese schools are increasingly eliminating the Absenteeism column from school report cards, a change that has drawn national attention. The issue pertains to the "内申書" or school report card that records a student’s attendance alongside their performance. This move intends to reduce negative labeling and stress among students who miss school due to reasons beyond their control. As many details are yet to be ironed out, the extent and timeline of this decision's implementation remain unclear.

In Japan, there is a notable emphasis on attendance in education as a key parameter of responsibility and commitment. Removal of attendance rates from report cards is a controversial issue, as it challenges deeply ingrained societal expectations. Supporters argue that it reduces stress and stigma for students with unavoidable absences; detractors worry it may inadvertently encourage absenteeism.

In the US and the EU, attendance is also recorded and considered important, but is often handled with more flexibility. Schools typically have policies to manage prolonged absences due to illness or other reasons, and student performance is primarily evaluated based on grades and other achievements. The move in Japan represents a step towards this more holistic view of student performance.