State law requires you to be in school for a certain number of days each school year. There is also a maximum number of days allowed for unexcused absences. Once you hit that number, you′ll either be suspended for a period of time or expelled. Either consequence is serious and affects your ongoing education and family life.
Missing school without an acceptable excuse is called truancy. Your school′s assistant principal or attendance officer may be authorized to issue tickets, order you to appear in court, or even arrest you and take you before a judge if you don′t show up for school. The laws differ around the country, but all states have mandatory attendance laws.
Illness, a death in the family, or other emergencies are reasonable excuses for missing a class or a whole day of school. You may also receive permission to miss school to take a special trip or attend a family function. If possible, let your teacher know in advance about any planned absence.
Schools and courts have become very serious about school attendance. In fact, legislatures are passing laws making parents accountable for their children′s truancy. Parents may be fined or jailed if the truancy continues.
In Colorado, a fifteen-year-old girl was ordered to spend a month in a detention center for missing forty-three days of school and being late to school nineteen times. Her parents were also sent to jail for ten days and fined $300. A fifteen-year-old girl in South Carolina was tied to her mother, by court order, to make sure she went to school and stayed out of trouble.
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I am the single mother of a 17 year old boy (will be 18 in April 2009). My son has been occasionally ditching school, and short of skipping out of my job and actually going to school with him and sitting next to him all day, I cannot prevent him from doing this. I have lectured, discussed, bribed, threatened, begged and pleaded with him about his attendance and I certainly cannot afford to pay a fine for truancy (especially if I have to take off work to sit by his side every second all day). Is there any law that can make him responsible for his own decisions for the next 3 months??
Judge Tom’s response:
Dear Jackie: we sympathize with your situation and you’re certainly not alone. Many parents find themselves battling the growing pains of their teens. What you can do to control him over the next few months before he turns 18 depends on the laws of your state. You may have an emancipation law that could apply, but the process may take as long or longer than the time left before he’s legally an adult. Or you could check your state’s ‘incorrigible child’ laws to see if it applies and what you can do. If your local court provides free legal advice to citizens, take advantage of it. Many cities have weekly ‘free legal assistance programs’ that are staffed by volunteer lawyers. Good luck.
I’m living in greeley, Colorado and i was wondering how many days you can ditch before being fined for truancy. I’ve only done it four times but i am stressing out thinking my mom will get in trouble.
Judge Tom’s response:
Under Colorado law, a “habitual truant” is defined as a student who misses public school four days in any one month or ten days in one school year due to unexcused absences. However, most schools and school districts have developed their own policies concerning unexcused absences meaning you could face consequences for ditching even if you don’t meet the definition for a “habitual truant”. Typically once a student becomes a habitual truant, the school will refer the case to juvenile court where the student would have to appear for a hearing. Colorado law also requires parents to comply with the compulsory attendance laws. This allows the state to also hold the parent responsible for their child’s unexcused absences.
It’s always best to play it safe and by the rules. If you continue skipping school, you are putting not just yourself, but also your mother at risk of facing consequences for your actions. We wish you the best.
i live in Utah live ditched about 20 days. whats the maximum consequence?
Judge Tom’s Response:
Hello, Lee. The maximum consequence for ditching school depends on the laws of your state. You might ask a school counselor or a local librarian. You could be charged with truancy if that is the practice in your community. That could mean a period on probation through the juvenile court. You may also be suspended or expelled from the school if you exceed the number of missed days allowed without a legitimate reason. Avoid all of this by going every day and making the best of it – it will pay off sooner than you think. Good luck.
hi! well i got caught ditching and i didnt show up onmy court date because i was out of town and i dont know how to contact the court. what can happen to me ? And this would be my secong ticket =/. oh yeah another question do ditching tickets clear up when once you turn 18 even if you havent payed them?
Judge Tom’s response:
We suggest you call the court, explain what happened and they’ll tell you what to do. It’s best to take care of this asap so it doesn’t appear that you’re blowing off the court or probation department. In most states truancy citations don’t appear in adult record checks once you turn 18. Good luck, Karen.
i ditched with this girl due to peer presure.will i get in trouble if it is my first time?will my mom get in trouble?i just don’t want to tell my mom she will probably take everything away from me.my brother got caught ditching classes but i ditched the day
Judge Tom’s response:
Sarah, all states have a required number of days for school attendance. Once students hit a certain number of unexcused absences, they will face consequences by the school and possibly the juvenile justice system. Most states and school districts will not suspend or expel a student for one unexcused absence; however the school’s policy may require some punishment like detention. Parents are typically held responsible only when the truancy of a minor continues after already being punished for unexcused absences.
I was caught ditching one of my classes with a couple of friends we were caught by a officer and was sent back to school where we got a ticket and got punished by the school for a couple of days. The officer told us that we were going to be called home and told when we had to go to court. My friends and I regret ever ditching but were freacking out about the court thing what could happened to us oh and we live in California can you please tell us what could happened to us please.
Judge Tom’s Response:
What happens to you when you go to court depends on the truancy law of your state, your juvenile record if you have one, the judge hearing the case, and your attitude about being in this situation. You may have a chance to explain what happened to a probation officer and/or the judge. Your city may also have a diversion program that you can attend so you don’t have a permanent juvenile record. Good luck and stay in school.
hi!my name is jessica i live in texas ive already been sent to court once and i had to pay 180 but they send me to court again i had pladed innnocent becouse the attendance ladies were messing up on my attendance. i went back and tried telling them that they made mistakes becouse the days i had been absent i had doctors appoinment due to deppression.also due to my deppression i lost intrest in lots of things .at the time i was living with my ex boyfriend i graduated and i still had my court hearing for the third time to show my excuse notes the thing is my ex phisically abussed me and i left his house living all my paper work behind to get back at me for doing that and putting domestic charges on him he destroyed my papers .Im in a big mess court only adds more problems to my situation what can i do i have cout on the 13th of july help i really need advice!!!!oh by the way i graduated already i was class of 2009
Judge Tom’s Response:
Dear Jessica:
First, congratulations on graduating from high school. With all that’s going on in your life, you were still able to complete your studies. Regarding your next court appearance, be prepared to tell the judge the reasons you missed school. If you can get new written proof from your doctors, do it. Also take with you your diploma to show the court that even though you had some absences, you were able to graduate. Good luck.
hey the name nick and ive been truant alot i have like 3,000 in fines will that go away when i turn 18 next month
Judge Tom’s Response:
Good question, Nick. Fines, restitution amounts and court surcharges do not automatically go away when you turn 18. In most states, any unpaid amounts stay on your record and a civil judgment may be entered against you. That means you’ll have trouble establishing credit, getting a school loan, joining the military, etc. Also if you plan to ask the court to expunge your juvenile record, it won’t happen if your court-ordered debts aren’t paid. Thanks for asking.
alright whats the chances of jail time when i turn 18 its all truancy tickets ive had a rough life sexual abuse cud that get it lowered or perhaps gone
Judge Tom’s Response:
Further penalties for not paying your fines depend on your state’s laws. Your life story may have an influence on the court’s decision in how to handle your case.
I got a ditching school ticket awhile ago almost a year ago and im currently 18tn I was wondering if that comes of my record and i will be aloud to get my drivers license. I also have pocession of tobacco perafanilia i was wondering if that came off to.Please help me.
Judge Tom’s response:
Both offenses are minor in nature and shouldn’t show on a records check once you’re an adult – but you need to check with your local authorities to see what happens in your state. Call the district attorney’s office or local police station. Good luck.
I just got married and we live in Polk County, Fl. he has a daughter who is 15 and she will not go to school. We are constantly trying to wake her up but, she just lays there (like she is deaf). This is the second week of school and she has only attended two days.I believe the third time in seventh grade. She doesn’t care that we might go to jail for her not going to school. I am really stuck now, because her father doesn’t want to deal with it and I’m afriad that I will go to jail and I have four other kids that I have to take care of. No problems with my four going to school! Do you know if there is a PINS Warrant in Florida or any kind of court order to make her reliable for her own decisions?
Judge Tom response:
Every state has compulsory attendance laws, including Florida. Stepparents may or may not be legally responsible for the attendance of their stepchildren. You’ll have to check your state’s education code about this. If she continues to refuse to go to school, contact the counselor at the school for assistance and/or the school’s resource officer. Good luck.
I was charged with truancy when I was 18, and put on a long list of probation. They did not let me quit school or anything. Over the truancy case I have spent 62 days in the actual Breck. Co. Detention Center with actual felons and crime offenders. I will be 19 in 2 months and am still on probation, even though I have already graduated. What’s up with that? I don’t understand.
Judge Tom’s response:
If you’re still on probation, you should have a probation officer assigned to your case. Call him or her and find out what’s going on and how long you’ll be supervised. Also ask how you can clear your juvenile record. Good luck.
I’m currently enrolled in an independent study program which requires me to show up to class twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays based on my last name. I got a ticket on a Friday for ditching somehow even though i told the police that i don’t have school on Fridays. I even showed them my ID, which says I’m in an independent study program. Can they do that?
Judge Tom’s response:
Since you received a ticket, you’ll have to explain the situation to the court. Bring all documentation with you showing your required school days and the ticket may be dismissed. Good luck.
I got a ticket for truancy in winter 08 I went to court in spring 09 and the judge said if i make good grades and dont miss anymore days of school it will be dissmissed but if i do he will suspend my license and ill have to pay the $500 fine but did get more but I graduated this summer 2009 and the court date was in the summer but i rescheduled. im in college now and im now 18 will i still have to pay my $500 fine if i graduated and im 18? and my court date is set for october
Judge Tom’s response:
First, congratulations on graduating and starting college. Bring your paperwork to court showing that you graduated and are in school and the judge will likely dismiss the case and clear your record based on what you’ve said here. Good luck.
Hello, I live in Arizona, I have ditched about 4 times, and stayed home about 10 times,what is my limit?
Judge Tom’s response:
Take a look at http://www.lawforkids.org – this is an Arizona website that provides information about laws affecting kids including truancy. You can also check with your school’s attendance office and they’ll give you the limits and rules that apply to you.
hi my name is amber and im 18 years old i live in california, still in highschool. This is my last year but i have been missing lots of school. I have to work full time to pay all my bills, so i miss school to go to work, but i am afraid that i will not be able to graduate or the school might kick me out…my grades are not bad. i just need to know what could happen if i miss alot of school. every time i ask the person in the office what i need to do to excuss my missed days they always tell me nothing. Is there a maximum of days that you could miss and still graduate?
Judge Tom’s response:
The number of days you need to attend to graduate is based on state law – usually around 180 days each year. But every state is different. The number of unexcused absences also varies from state to state, and among school districts. Check with your school’s attendance officer, counselor, or go straight to the top and ask your principal. He or she won’t bite your head off – explain to them your circumstances and intention to graduate. Good luck.
Hello, I live in Texas, and this has been the first time I have ever been absent for school – mainly because I have had far too much work which prevents me from getting any sleep at all. I am an honors student and have only skipped school because I have been having a very rough week, consisting of 1-5 hours of sleep every night. My parents refuse to sign an excuse slip, saying that I deserve anything that the law deems worthy of punishing me. What will happen to me? How can I make this up?
Judge Tom’s response:
Explain to the court the circumstances – why you’ve missed school, your duties at home, and desire to remain an honors student. You may be ordered to attend some counseling or a truancy program. Consider this a lesson in responsibility and stay focused on your education. Good luck.
Hi, ok i’ve been kipping school, at first i just didn’t go because i didn’t feel good, and i had sleeping issues. Like for example i can’t go to sleep for the world, no matter what i do. But i ended up not going to school for 15 days, now my parents got a court date. I’m so scared & I don’t want my parents to get in troule. I know it’s my fault, but I don’t know if it’s me or every teenagers go through this, but I want to go to school now. I’m just wondering what will happen when me and my parents go to court?
Judge Tom’s response:
If this is your first time to court for truancy, you can expect some community service hours, enrollment in a truancy program if your county has one, and possibly a short probation term. Every county and every state handles truancy differently. Your parents may be required to do something as well, such as attending the counseling with you, if your state has a law regarding parents of truants. They could also be fined if you continue to miss days especially after your hearing. Bottom line, get back to school whatever it takes. Set your alarm on loud, not snooze. Good luck.
Hey, well I live in Texas and I have been skipping swim practice @ 6:30 in the morning because of cramming all night for tests etc and I have 6 unexcused absences. My school district sent me a letter and I’m kind of getting worried now but I’m just too tired to swim some days. What should I do? I’ve talked to my coach and he just won’t change it.
Judge Tom’s response:
Talk with your parents about what’s going on. They may have more impact on resolving this with the school so you don’t end up in court for truancy or before the school board for these unexcused absences. Good luck.
hi i was just wondering can i be prosecuted for not going to school regularly because of my generalized anxiety disorder? I dont go regularly because of severe panic attacks and i’m afraid to go because of them is it considered truancy?
Judge Tom’s response:
The answer to your question depends on your age, grade level and the attendance laws in your state. Google your state’s name and add “school attendance” for the details about what’s required where you live. Most states recognize medical issues as acceptable reasons for missing school – but you’d probably need a doctor’s letter or statement to avoid unexcused absences. There should be an alternative education program available to you until you’re ready to return to mainstream classes. Check with your school district. Good luck.
Me and my friend were caught ditching by the police and now we have to go to court.I’ve ditched twice and I’ve never got caught.I don’t know if I’m goingnto get a ticket, I am so scared about what is going to happen. Oh I live in California
Dear Jasmin: Once you get to court, the process will be explained to you. You may be offered a diversion or truancy program that means if you complete some classes, maybe a few community work hours, and some counseling, the case will be closed. Otherwise, you could be placed on probation for a period of time so that a probation officer can check on your school attendance. Bottom line, don’t miss anymore school or you could end up going to school in detention, and you won’t like that. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello my name is Kat and I’m 18 and live in california. I have ditched school countless times, and I wanted to know if my school is able to charge me with truancy even though I’m already 18?
Dear Kat: Generally, truancy laws do not apply to adults. California requires children between six and 18 to attend school, with exceptions depending on the circumstances. Although you may not be subject to a truancy violation, unexcused absences will jeopardize your chance to graduate. For details on this subject try Googling “California truancy” or “California compulsory attendance.” Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have been missing a lot of school this year (around 40 days) for many different reasons (sickness, family troubles, ect) about half of my absences are excused….I am scheduled to appear in court. I live in ohio, i am very nervous about the possible consequences. what is most likely to happen? would they go as far as putting me in detention hall? would my mom (only parent) get in trouble? I am very scared. Please help.
Dear Mike: You should be nervous about appearing in court. Judges take education and truancy seriously, as they should. Since this is your first court appearance, you may receive some community service hours to complete, and have to attend a truancy class. Every state handles truancy differently. You’re not likely to receive any detention time on the first offense. But it is possible for repeat offenses. Bottom line, stay in school and no more unexcused absences. It could also jeopardize graduating with your class. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I am a senior currently applying to colleges and one of my applications asks if i have ever been convicted of a misdemeanor. I have gotten a ticket for ditching school but did not have to pay anything or go through any type of program.
what i was wondering was; is ditching school and getting a ticket for it a misdemeanor in California?
Dear Gaby: Truancy in most states is an act of incorrigibility, not a misdemeanor or felony. Plus as a minor, you weren’t “convicted” of anything if your ticket and consequence was just for ditching. Good luck in college.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
okay like no other i have been missing an excessive amount of days of school. due to many reasons lack of sleep, sickness, family issues, being sent home b/c i was sick. ive had truency before it was long ago i don’t even remeber anymore it was in middle school. im a senior now and i would like to kno what happens to a second time truancy? i dont live with my parents any more i moved out when i was 17. im 19 now and a little nervous.
Dear Sharon: Because laws change periodically, and you want a current answer to your situation, it’s best to Google your state’s name followed by “truancy” or “compulsory attendance.” Usually a second truancy charge results in work hours, a fine, truancy class and/or counseling. Your age, since you’re an adult, may also have an impact on possible consequences. You could also call the court or a local public defender’s office and inquire. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have a 15 year old son who makes good grades and attends school regularly! However, he has been tardy a few too many times. Tardy meaning 1 to 10 minutes at the start of school and apparently he is late to a few classes in school. These occurrences have turned into absences after 3 tardies which has resulted in my child falling under the “truancy” guidelines. Is there anything to be done when he is not skipping and his “absences” are actually a result of in school tardies? We are located in Arlington, TX and are hoping for some resolution!
Dear Mrs. G.: Many middle schools and high schools across the country have district policies dealing with tardiness and unexcused absences. Look at the school’s code of conduct and student rules for the specifics in your district. There should also be an explanation of how to address a disagreement with your son’s attendance record. Ask for a meeting or hearing to resolve this. Bottom line, he is required to follow the rules and start getting to his classes on time. Otherwise, he’ll have to live with the consequences. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
just wanted to know how many days can you miss in high school in California when you transfer or move to a different school before getting in fined?
Dear Joey: Every state has its own laws concerning the number of days you are required to attend school before facing a truancy citation. For your state, try Googling California and “compulsory attendance” or “truancy” and you should find the specific number of days required by law. This information should also be in your school’s student handbook, which you can request a copy of if you don’t already have it. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
what if you cant afford to pay a fine that the court or judge gives you for skipping school
Dear Joey: Explain to the judge your circumstances and he or she may substitute community service hours for the fine. If not, the judge may spread out the payments over a year or so that you can eventually pay it off according to your financial abilities. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I live in california. how many times can i ditch one period before i am fined?
Dear Alex: Every state has its own laws concerning the number of days you are required to attend school before facing a truancy citation. For your state, try Googling California and “compulsory attendance” or “truancy” and you should find the specific number of days required by law and how many days you can miss before you are considered “truant”. This information should also be in your school’s student handbook, which you can request a copy of if you don’t already have it. Good luck.
[This is informatio only - not legal advice.]
Hello im steven im in 6th grade in ohio and i am very nervous about my attendance. I got a letter saying that they filed a report with juvenile court and now i have a bad flu and today i had to stay home to protect the health of other students i dont want to go to juvenile detention! HELP!!!
Dear Steven: Be sure to go to school every day unless you have an excused absence. Being sick is a good reason to miss school, especially if you have a doctor’s note. When you go to court, explain all of your absences, tell the truth and you may be placed in a truancy program. That may include a class and/or counseling about school and some community work hours. Your education is the most important thing in your life at this time. Stay in school. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi! i live in polk county, florida & so far i’ve been going to school everyday but there’s sort of a problem always getting to my 1st period class. i almost never make it to 1st period which is geometry! when i do make it to my 1st period class the teacher always has an attitude problem when i ask him for help on classwork or test’s or even make-up work! i’m scared that all these absences will affect me in the future when i apply for entrance to a college & university. (i graduate next year) will it affect me? ;; i try to go to 1st period but sometimes i can’t because of the weather it’ll rain & i won’t have no ride to make it and just alot more stuff. the deans & guidance counselors haven’t found out about this but if they do will they send me to juvenile detention?? i cannot talk to the ppl that work at my school for the reason being that i know they are going to take it to serious matters & will mess me up someway. can you please help me out!!! thanks.
Dear Star: You have plenty of excuses for missing first period. But we think you know the solution to your problem. It’s pretty obvious. You need to get up on time to make it to class or risk failing the class. If it’s a required course to graduate next year, you’re going to have a problem. Or switch your schedule if you can, so you start classes one or two periods later. You’re not alone with the morning struggle getting up, but alarm clocks have been around for awhile. Try one. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Ive missed about 10 days during the first three quarters. My parents and i are taking a vacation for religous purposes to Mexico. I dont know if my school will let me take two weeks off, when i have already missed 10 days… Would the school let me?
Dear Jacky: Every state has its own laws about school attendance and required number of days. Before your trip, it would be best to check with the front office and make sure these are excused rather than unexcused days. You might be required to write a paper about the trip or some other exercise, plus keeping up on your school work. Ask your parents to meet with the school in advance to explain the nature of the trip and its importance to your family. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hi on december me and my friend got caught ditching by the police now we have to go to court on march i don’t know what is going to happen when i go to court. i live in longbeach,california
Dear Jasmin: If this is your first time in court for truancy and you admit missing those days, you can expect to as a consequence community work hours, a truancy class or counseling. Your court may have a diversion program which means you won’t have a record and the case will be closed upon completion of these terms. Stay in school – next time may include detention school.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i have skipped school about 10 times but i dont now why i dont seem to be bothered how many times can u skip school without getting in seriose trouble i need to now i want a good job just cant be bothered going to school
Dear Karatie09: What you say contradicts itself. By this we mean “I want a good job” but “just can’t be bothered going to school” doesn’t exactly go together, unless you are an heir to a fortune. Where is that “good job” going to come from? Is someone going to hire you if you can’t read, write or spell correctly? Stay in school as long as possible. An education is something that lasts your whole life and can’t be taken away from you. Check your student handbook for the number of unexcused absences permitted before action is taken against you by the school. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi
i just wanted to know what all need to do and what al i need to know to get my licesen back.
they have been suspended becaused ive missed to many days out of school last year
tat was only because i was fighting, (but the fight was not my fault) so how do i go about getting my licesen back?
am im 18 right now (june 20th is my birthday) and will be graduating this may
Dear Stache’: You need to check your state law regarding license suspension for truancy. It should include a statement about getting it reinstated and what you need to do for that. Try Googling your state name followed by “truancy driver’s license.’ Sounds like a good idea to us in order to keep kids in school until at least high school graduation. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I live in Staten island new york and I’ve been absent about 40 times in a school year. I’m 16 years old and in the 11th grade. The school has contacted the my parents and visited my home, they threatened my parents that if i don’t get my act together that they will file a report with Child services and they will take me away. my question is, Can they take me away from my parents, even though my record is clean, have no prior incidents with the law? The school knows that i get sick a lot, and the 40 days (spaced out) i was absent, i was home. Thank you.
Dear Amber: In some states, Child Protective Services may get involved in a case of educational neglect. In other words, if your parents don’t see to it that you go to school, you could be removed and they could suffer consequences as well. So you need to get to every class, every day. Or you could be charged with truancy, and your parents may be penalized. No more unexcused absences. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Can you go back to juvie if you ditched one class and your on a pr bond?
Dear Kevin: Yes, it’s possible depending on the terms of your release given to you by the court. If you’re required to attend school, without any unexcused absences, and you niss a class, the judge has the discretion to impose sanctions including return to juvie. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have to go to court next week for missing about 15 unexcused days. I am afraid of what will happen. I have also been diagnosed with anxiety related to school. Will they place me in homebound instruction or take me out of my house? Please I don’t want to leave my house.
Dear John: It’s not likely you’ll be removed from your home unless you’ve been warned in the past by the court about excessive unexcused absences. If you’re already on probation for an offense and now you’re violating your probation by cutting school, you could be facing some time in detention if the court in your jurisdiction has the authority to detain you for truancy. You also asked about your Dad going to jail – that’s also unlikely but in some situations possible after warnings by the court to see that you attend. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Umm.. I live in Forks WA just wondering if my absence days carry on through the entire year or what…? I have lots of unexcused absences So i dunno what to do? =/
Dear Amphbianoia: Every state has its own laws regarding school attendance and unexcused absences. Check your student handbook for the rules that apply to you. Missed classes and unexcused days will likely affect your standing and may prevent you from moving on with your class. There are a set number of absences that when exceeded bring consequences to the student. Bottom line, get to school and every class unless you have a good reason, acceptable by the school, to miss.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hey, I have 9 days absence & my highschool limitt is 10. In my school when u reach 10 they have a meeting with u & ur parent , wat I want to know is what do they talk bout there or wat happens
Dear Chris: Your absences and the reasons for them will be discussed. The school wil want to know what can be done to improve your attendance and they will explain to you and your parents the consequences of additional unexcused absences. You may be offered assistance to deal with the underlying reasons for missing school. Once you exceed the ten days, you could be suspended and even kept from moving on with your class. Ask at the meeting what your school’s policy is. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hello. I was very sick last month and ended up in the hospital, therefore missing 10 days of school. All of my absences are excused and I have two doctors notes. My school made my sign a contract today saying I will be at school for the rest of the year or I will go to court. Were my excused absences a valid reason for the school to give me this truancy contract? What will happen if I violate it? Thank you :]
Dear Erica: It may be the school’s policy to enter into these contracts with students who have absences, excused or not. Your student handbook should explain the consequences of violating the attendance rules. There shouldn’t be a problem if you miss additional school this year if they are excuse for medical reasons. Hopefully, you’ll stay healthy the rest of this semester. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi,I live in Maryland and was wondering what the laws were involving parents who allow children to stay home? Also I have grown more concern with my neighbor. She has allowed her 8 year old to stay home from school for up to 2 weeks at a time. School did get involved and she started to attend once again. Now, I see it happening again.(shes out running errands with her mother during school hours and is clearly not sick) Arent there laws here that could make this stop?
Dear J.L.: Most states have laws regarding neglect of children including educational neglect. But the ages of children required to attend school may differ. You’ll have to check Google for your state’s compulsory attendance laws. Violations may be reported to Child Protective Services or your local prosecuting attorney, but due to limited resources nationwide, this type of report may be a low priority. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I’m in 7th grade and missed about 15-17 ays of school. some of them with doctor notes others with a note from my mom. Will I be truant if I miss anymore days of school without a doctors note(sorry if this isn’t related to the topic I just need advice)
Dear Nikko: Each state has its own compulsory school attendance laws requiring students to be in school so many days. Also your school has its own rules about truancy, tardiness and the consequences. They should be in your student handbook. You may be getting close with your unexcused absences. Ask at the Office or check your handbook for the exact numbers. Bottom line: get to school on time and don’t miss any additional days – it could result in being set back a year. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
so today, i was caught outside of school with a friend. We were already walking to school when the school police caught us, he told us to get in and he took us to the school where we received a citation. We have to appear in court sometime in May. I have a clean record never been caught ditching or ever been suspended. i have good grades too. what can i expect from the court? im in CA. and the citation says that i have to show up with a parent or guardian. Can i take my sister who is 19?
Dear R.G.: We assume your ticket was for truancy or ditching school since you wrote us under that question. If that’s the case, you’ll probably be offered a truancy program that may include a class and counseling. Your 19-year-old sister is not your parent. So, unless she’s your legal guardian, it’s doubtful the court would accept her instead of a parent. It’s best to tell your parents what happened and why you have to go to court. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I was sick for a long time in winter, 23 days, but I really was sick and my mom called the school every time, but i stayed home different days of the week for a few weeks, so it looks like i ditched (i didnt). I want to go to a private christian high school next year and I’m not sure if they will still let me in now.. i live in california… sorry i just wanna know if u know.
Dear Jenna: As long as you pass this year and meet the requirements of your new school, you should be accepted. If all of your absences were excused or for medical reasons, explain this, if asked, to the new school and there shouldn’t be a problem. Good luck, and stay healthy.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Hi, I like in the UK, and got caught ditching school. its the first time ive ditched and not gonna do it again. me and my mate were reported as ‘missing’, they rang our parents, and rang the police to try find us. we were at my house after me not feeling too well. i didnt wanna say anything to any staff because i didnt want my mum getting called out of work. so i got the bus home without saying anything. what do you think will happen?
Dear Tami: Since your parents were called at the outset, there’s a good chance the school will follow up with a call again. Think about telling your Mum what happened so she’s not inconvenienced at work. Plus it should come from you, not the police or your school. There may be a consequence for ditching depending on your school’s policy. It may include an in-school truancy program or community work hours. Think twice before ditching again – it’s a big hassle that has a ripple effect on others in your life. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].