Can courts get students back in class next year?

Charlotte, NC – June 18, 2024 –

As extremely high rates of student absenteeism continue to plague schools, questions are being raised about the effectiveness of court intervention in getting students back in the classroom. Amidst rising concerns, District Attorney Spencer Merriweather shared insights on the challenges surrounding chronic absence in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS).

The Scale of the Issue

CMS estimated that nearly 23% of students would miss at least 10% of school days in the past academic year, meeting the criteria for chronic absence. This equates to over 32,000 students at risk of falling behind academically. The problem is particularly acute in schools serving predominantly disadvantaged communities, exacerbating existing barriers to education.

Challenges with Court Intervention

While the idea of enforcing truancy laws through court action may seem appealing to some, Merriweather highlights the limitations of such an approach. Truancy is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, with jail time being an unlikely outcome. Moreover, many families facing chronic absence are grappling with severe socio-economic challenges, making court summons an inadequate solution.

A Different Approach

Merriweather emphasizes the need for a more holistic and community-driven response to address the root causes of chronic absenteeism. Instead of resorting to punitive measures, he advocates for collaborative efforts involving social service agencies, housing support, healthcare providers, and mentoring programs. CMS is exploring the establishment of truancy mediation centers across the county, aiming to provide tailored support to families in crisis.

Looking Ahead

With the upcoming academic year on the horizon, Merriweather acknowledges the urgency of addressing chronic absence as a top priority. While truancy court may still be relevant for cases of parental neglect, the emphasis is shifting towards proactive intervention and support for families facing dire circumstances. By fostering a collective response from community stakeholders, CMS and local authorities are striving to re-engage students and ensure their educational success.

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