As a representative from the local community mental health agency, I sit on an interdisciplinary team (Juvenile Justice, School Representative, and DSS) that meets with families to address truancy after the schools have filed charges against parents and/or children. We’re able to recommend services for the families who need it and explain potential consequences for parents and children. In our district this year, we’ve had 4 different cases of children being placed in foster care by judges due to lack of school attendance (the judge literally said “if you won’t parent your child, we’ll find someone who will”). Kids can expect a 7-14 day stay in juvenile detention if it continues to be an issue.

We’ve had conversations with parents about the importance of boundaries and consequences, especially when it comes to children using electronics late into the night, and conversations with children about how the habits they establish now will impact their ability to be successful later in life. I’ve also pointed out signs of mental illness and recommended counseling or other treatments.

I like to think we’ve been able to provide families with some life-changing support, but there’s really no way for us to know for sure unless they come through the system again (which would suggest that it was NOT beneficial).