Truancy Program Overview Lompoc Valley Middle School in conjunction with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office

What is Truancy? Truancy is defined as a failure to attend school without a valid excuse.

Why is there a need for a Truancy Program? Truancy is a known risk factor for future delinquency; Prior to the implementation of the Truancy Program in 1997, juvenile arrests, particularly for violent offenses, were increasing and admissions to juvenile facilities were at their highest levels and many were operating over capacity; More than 82% of prisoners today are school dropouts.

What are the goals of the Truancy Program? Create individualized plans which respond to the particular needs of the truant child and family; Improve school attendance through parental and child accountability; Reduce juvenile crime rate, adult criminality and joblessness; Make education a top priority for families; Empower youth with education; and Enforce Zero Tolerance for habitual truants.

Compulsory Education Law It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure their child’s regular school attendance. All students between the age of 6 and 18 must attend school every day school is in session unless legally excused ( EC ). Violation of this law carries a fine of up to $500. If truancy continues, parents can also be cited with Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor ( PC 272 ). Violation of this law is considered a misdemeanor and carries a possible penalty of up to one year in jail and a $2500 fine.

What is a valid excuse? Illness Attendance at the funeral service of an immediate family member (Bereavement) Court Medical, Dental and Eye appointments Immunization Religious Holiday Independent Study Absences for any other reason are considered truancies and unlawful.

Program Steps This prevention/intervention program consists of several steps which take place based on the number of unexcused absences a student accumulates. The steps consist of: 1. A letter is sent home advising parents of truant children, the number of absences, and parent obligations under the Education Code; 2. Attendance at a group meeting focusing on parent/child accountability, legal responsibility and consequences; 3. Individual meeting at the school with parent, child and school personnel to identify possible solutions to improving the child’s attendance; 4. School Attendance Review Board (SARB); and 5. Court intervention.

What can you do to help? Communicate with the school regarding when your child will be absent and why; Call the school within 5 school days to excuse any legal absence ( After 5 days, if the absence is not cleared, it will be recorded as unexcused ); Attempt to schedule appointments outside of school hours; Seek help from the school if your student refuses to attend.

Contact LVMS 24 Hour Attendance: Main Office (to speak with counselor/admin):