Examining The Use of Truancy Models Addressing Chronic Absence in Schools Throughout the United States

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

In every state, truancy is a status offense where youth have stopped attending school. Truancy is a strong predictor of further delinquent involvement and there is concern that absentee rates are as high as 30% in some classrooms throughout the United States. Because attendance and truancy laws vary between states, prior research has not captured a comprehensive picture of existing truancy models. Therefore, this study identifies various programs that are used throughout the United States that address chronic absence in schools. After identifying representatives of truancy intervention programs in each of the 50 states, on online questionnaire was administered with various questions regarding the program. These questions ask information about program history, funding, training, and youth and family demographics. The aim of the study is to inventory truancy intervention programs and to compare existing programs with the goal of informing future truancy policies and practices throughout the United States.

Authors

• Gabriela Rocha Brito, University of New Haven

• Danielle Cooper, University of New Haven