Addressing Truancy to Ensure Smarter Kids and Safer Streets
The Problem
“We are losing far too many students to truancy, and it’s a pressing crisis in New Orleans. The Louisiana Department of Education reports that 1 out of 3 of our students were absent from school 10% or more of the time. This chronic absenteeism isn’t just an educational issue; it’s a community crisis that contributes to increased delinquent behavior, violent and nonviolent crimes, and serious mental health challenges. And our school board has not addressed this urgent problem. I am fully committed to making this a top priority and implementing the solutions our children desperately need.”
— KaTrina Chantelle Griffin, Candidate for Orleans School Board, District 4
Our Vision
“Students need to be in school to both be educated and to build a safer community. As a candidate for the Orleans Parish School Board, I am committed to tackling truancy head-on. We must work collaboratively with families, school leaders, juvenile judges, the NOPD, the DA’s Office, and Families in Need of Service (FINS) to create effective solutions.”
— KaTrina Chantelle Griffin
A Unified Approach
“Reducing chronic truancy is not just about attendance; it’s about real crime prevention and fostering safe, thriving neighborhoods. We require a bold, comprehensive plan to confront and eliminate the rising absenteeism in our elementary and secondary schools. That’s why I am wholeheartedly supporting KaTrina Chantelle Griffin for School Board. She is dedicated to collaborating with all stakeholders to design a citywide, systematic response to truancy that will make a difference.”
— Jason Williams, Orleans Parish District Attorney
The Impact of Truancy
- Increased Crime Risk: Research shows a strong correlation between truancy and delinquent behavior, which can lead to serious societal challenges.
- Academic Setbacks: Missing school puts students at risk of falling behind, negatively impacting their educational journey and future opportunities.
- Emotional and Social Struggles: Truancy can exacerbate mental health issues, leading to feelings of isolation and decreased self-esteem.
2023-2024 Chronic Absenteeism Rate: Overall & by Subgroup
Note: Chronic Absenteeism is defined as students who are enrolled for at least 10 days and are absent 10% or more of days enrolled. Students are counted once at each level (state, school system, and site).
School System | Category | Subgroup | Chronic Absenteeism Rate |
Orleans Parish | Overall | Total | 32.9% |
Orleans Parish | Grades PreK-5 | Total | 31.7% |
Orleans Parish | Grades 6-8 | Total | 31.9% |
Orleans Parish | Grades 9-12 | Total | 35.2% |