Three Richland Parish officials met recently to discuss chronic absenteeism and truancy.
Taking part in the meeting were Assistant District Attorney Amanda Wilkins, Child Welfare & Attendance Supervisor Dr. Samuel Williams and Truancy Officer Tommy Watson.
During the meeting, they discussed the current state goal of decreasing both truancy and chronic absenteeism rates by two percent each year.
In an effort to continue to decrease both rates, Richland Parish schools has adopted a similar two percent goal for truancy and chronic absenteeism.
The state has made both truancy and chronic absenteeism a priority with increasing average daily attendance as it may have a significant impact on student achievement.
Therefore, Richland Parish schools have taken the same stance with increased monitoring of students attendance. Students who miss at least five unexcused absences of five tardies are considered truant.
As such, starting the 2025-2026 school year, students who miss at least five unexcused absences will be reported to the offi ce of the assistant district attorney.
Students who are enrolled for at least 10 days and are absent 10% or more of days enrolled are considered chronically absent.
Richland Parish schools encourages all parents and guardians to submit acceptable documentation for their students’ absences throughout the year in order to reduce the number students who are considered chronically absent.
