NCJ Number
149422
Date Published
1989
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This booklet presents information on the nature and causes of school truancy and dropping out and provides recommendations and checklists for steps parents and school administrators can take to reduce these problems.
Abstract
Some of the issues addressed are the definitions of a truant and a dropout, when truancy begins, the severity of the dropout problem, major reasons why students drop out of school, why parents allow their children to be absent from school, and the degree to which parents can be held responsible for their children's school absenteeism. In providing information on how parents can promote regular school attendance, the booklet recommends that parents begin early in a child's life to encourage learning, to explain the value of education, and to emphasize the relationship of a diploma to enjoying a rewarding life. Parents should also know the compulsory attendance laws and policies, seek help if they cannot control their child's school attendance, and work with the school to resolve the attendance problem. Educators can promote regular school attendance by determining the root causes of a child's absenteeism and taking the steps necessary to address them, including alternative schools, personal instruction, tutoring, or counseling. Steps in handling a truancy case by school authorities are outlined.