A truant is a student who is absent from school without a valid excuse. This term typically applies to students aged six to eighteen, as well as those enrolled in public school who are between eighteen and twenty-one years old. Being classified as a truant can have various consequences, including legal repercussions and interventions aimed at addressing the underlying issues of absenteeism.
The term "truant" is commonly used in educational law and juvenile justice. It is relevant in cases involving school attendance policies, child welfare, and educational rights. Legal practitioners may encounter this term when dealing with cases of educational neglect or when schools implement truancy intervention programs. Users can manage related issues through legal templates provided by services like US Legal Forms, which can help streamline the process of addressing truancy-related matters.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A fourteen-year-old student misses school for a week without notifying the school or providing a reason. This student would be classified as a truant.
Example 2: A nineteen-year-old student is late to class five times in one month without valid reasons. This student may also be considered a truant under state law. (hypothetical example)
The definition and consequences of truancy are often governed by state laws. For instance, Kentucky Revised Statutes § 159.150 outlines the criteria for being considered a truant. Other states may have similar statutes that define truancy and related penalties.
| State | Truancy Definition | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | Absent without valid excuse for three or more days. | Intervention programs, fines, or court appearances. |
| California | Missing school without a valid excuse three times in one school year. | Possible fines or mandatory attendance at counseling. |
| Texas | Absent without excuse for ten or more days in a six-month period. | Legal action, fines, or community service. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Truant | A student absent without valid excuse. | Focuses on absence from school. |
| Dropout | A student who leaves school before graduation. | Involves a permanent decision to leave school. |
| Chronic absenteeism | Missing a significant amount of school days. | Broader term that includes truancy. |
If you or someone you know is facing truancy issues, consider the following steps:
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