There has been much debate in our community lately about the starting time of schools. It is clear from the evidence presented that
the high school needs to have a later starting time. Records show that
70 percent of tardy high school students show up before the end of
first period. Some residents believe that this is due to early morning
doctor appointments, but only eight percent of those students had
medical excuses. They are simply sleeping in. Additionally, parents of
younger children complain that they have to wait until 8:45 to see their
kids off to elementary school.

Which of these is the author's claim?

A. There has been much debate in our community lately,

B. This is due to early morning doctor appointments.

C. High school needs to have a later starting time.

D. 70 percent of tardy high school students show up before the end
of first period