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Truancy Program
The Shelby County Attorney’s Office partners with our local school districts to ensure every child is given the opportunity to receive the education he or she deserves. Parents with a child enrolled in public school are directly responsible for that child’s attendance. A child’s excessive unexcused absences may lead to a criminal truancy charge being filed against the parent at the school’s request. It is extremely important for parents to maintain communication and cooperation with the school first and foremost in order to avoid unnecessary consequences.
Why Your Child is at Risk
Many state and national statistics show the dangers of children missing school.
- The U.S Department of Education reports that for every missed day of school, it takes a student two days to catch up.
- Children who are are truant in elementary school often develop a pattern of truancy that leads to dropping out of school.
- Children who do not attend school are more likely to become involved in delinquent and ultimately criminal behaviors.
- 50% of children who drop out of school are unemployed as adults.
Notify School of Any Absence
Make sure you know your school's policies about notification regarding absences and what documentation your school accepts for:
- Illness
- Medical appointments
- Observance of religious holidays
- Family emergencies
Also know what absences your school will excuse. Some activities generally not accepted for an excused absence include:
- Babysitting
- Missing the bus
- Cold Weather
- Employment
- Need for sleep or rest
- Car broke down
Communication with your school is very important. Make sure to inform your school of every time your child misses class.
Advice for Parents
- Make it clear that education is important by showing interest in your child's schoolwork and activities.
- Establish a routine and be consistent.
- Set a regular bed time.
- Set clear expectations and follow through.
- Plan appointments and vacations around the school day as much as possible.
- Bring doctor's notes with dates and times your child was seen if they must miss school.
- Make sure your child arrives on time. Being late 10 minutes a day totals 30 hours of lost instruction for the school year.
- Refuse to provide and excuse for your student unless it is a legitimate absence.
