In response to a rise in chronic absenteeism among local youth, the 29th District Court is partnering with Wayne Memorial High School and Wayne Youth Assistance to hold informal truancy hearings at the 29th District Court in Wayne.
Judge Breeda O’Leary will preside over the intervention hearings, designed to be troubleshooting sessions with at-risk students, their parents, school officials, and Wayne Youth Services personnel. The student’s record of attendance and academic performance will be reviewed, along with any disciplinary history. Explanations for chronic absenteeism vary widely and include such issues as lack of transportation, homelessness, substance abuse, untreated mental health problems, and lack of medical insurance. Community agencies will be utilized to provide support services to families as needed.
The goal is to agree on an intervention plan to improve attendance and academic achievement. During the informal hearing, a partnership is formed between the parents and school officials.
Often, students are empowered by this process because they play an active role in identifying solutions with school personnel. Parental involvement increases. Cases are generally monitored from one report card marking period to another. A review date is set to examine the student’s progress. The collaboration with local schools, community services agencies, and court officials creates an atmosphere where parents get support and kids get to school. It has proven successful in reducing truancy while avoiding any formal court involvement. If the intervention fails, formal truancy proceedings would be initiated through the Juvenile Court.
“I am excited for the opportunity to work with our local youth in improving their attendance and academic performance at Wayne Memorial High School. I am grateful to the Dr. James Anderson and Wayne Youth Assistance for partnering with the Court on this very important mission. This is just one of many ways the Court hopes to serve its community and help its residents,” said O’Leary.
O’Leary has been the City of Wayne’s judge since June of 2020. The first truancy court session is scheduled for October 29.
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