DHS in partnership with selected public high schools is piloting a new way to quickly address truancy and provide supportive services for students and families without court involvement.
Counselors can refer students to DHS who have 15 full-day absences from school. DHS will contact families, inform them of the number of absences, identify attendance barriers, and offer resources and supports.
Referrals for the truancy reduction program are only accepted directly from schools.
DHS prepared two reports during the first year of the Truancy Reduction Pilot Program.
If you are a school counselor at Anacostia, Eastern, KIPP DC Legacy, H.D. Woodson, or Kramer Middle School, please click here to make a referral.
If you have a question regarding the truancy reduction program, please call the DHS Youth Services Division at (202) 698-4334.