Truancy

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).