SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 6216

                            AS OF FEBRUARY 5, 1992

Brief Description:  Modifying compulsory school attendance requirements.

SPONSORS: Senator Roach

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Mich'l Prentice Needham (786‑7439)

Hearing Dates: February 5, 1992

BACKGROUND:

Current compulsory attendance provisions require schools to begin actions after a student fails to attend school without valid justification for an extended period of time, and when school officials deem the actions to be appropriate.  If actions are not successful in substantially reducing the student's absences from school, officials may choose to file petitions with the juvenile court at a time deemed appropriate.

The Juvenile Justice Issues Task Force was established by the 1991 Legislature.  The Task Force brought recommendations to the Legislature in January.  Part of the package contained recommendations on improving school attendance. 

SUMMARY:

Each school in a district is required at least annually to distribute information about the compulsory education requirements to students enrolled in the school and their parents. 

After one unexcused absence, schools are required to inform parents or guardians in writing of the unexcused absence.  After two unexcused absences, the school must schedule a conference with the student and parents or guardians.  The school district may take substantial action after five or more unexcused absences by petitioning the juvenile court for action against the student or parent.

If a child fails to comply with a court order to attend school, the court may order detention or alternatives to detention such as community service or participation in a dropout prevention program.

The Superintendent of Public Instruction shall report to the Legislature by September 1 of each year regarding petitions filed with the juvenile court.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested January 31, 1992