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 unexcused absences from school for high school students or 10 full-day unexcused absences for middle 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 Pilot Program are only accepted directly from schools.
On May 4, 2026, DHS issued a mid-year report for the second year of the Truancy Reduction Pilot Program.
Previously, DHS issued a mid-year and final report for the first year of the program.
If you are a school counselor at Anacostia, Eastern, KIPP Legacy, H.D. Woodson, Kramer Middle School, KIPP College Prep, Cardozo, Dunbar, Cesar Chavez, or Friendship Tech, please click here to make a referral.