Truancy Department

The Richland County Juvenile Court partners with eleven local school districts to address student absenteeism to prevent and reduce truancy. The program serves at-risk students ages 12–17 who fall within the unruly or misdemeanor categories. Truancy Education is designed to support student attendance, promote engagement in school, and involve families in the process. The program is structured around four progressive components:

1.Pre-Court Warning: In accordance with House Bill 410, schools issue a letter to parents warning of the legal consequences of unexcused absences before Court involvement.

2.Truancy Education Program: When a student accumulates 48 hours of unexcused absences, both the student and their parents are referred to the Court’s Truancy Education Program. Held twice monthly at the Juvenile Justice Center, this educational program informs parents and students about the truancy process, compulsory attendance laws, and individual school policies.

3.Informal Conference: If noncompliance continues, an informal conference is scheduled with the Truancy Coordinator, a school representative, and the student. This intervention focuses on setting clear expectations, defining responsibilities, and identifying any child or family needs that may require attention. Students who comply with the plan and avoid further unexcused absences may have their case sealed.

4.Court Intervention: When diversion efforts are unsuccessful, an official complaint is filed. Youth may be placed on community control or probation, supervised by a Truancy Probation Officer. Parents who fail to support their child’s school attendance may also face legal consequences through a joint complaint of “Failure to Send” or “Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.”

Through this structured approach, Truancy Education Services emphasizes early intervention, family involvement, and accountability, helping students remain engaged in school and achieve long-term success.

Truancy Coordinator:
Amy Baumberger - abaumberger@rcjcoh.us 
(419) 774-5668