School Zone
October is Truancy Awareness Month
Did you know that every day, more than two million students are absent from school in America? Research data tells us that students who become truant and eventually drop out of school put themselves at a long term disadvantage in becoming productive citizens. High school dropouts, for example, are two and a half times more likely to be on welfare than high school graduates.
Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) believes all children have a right to a quality education, but you must be present in school to learn. We offer many programs and services to meet the unique needs of students, and to make the school experience as rewarding as possible.
Alternative to Truancy and Out-of-School Suspension (A-TOSS) Centers will now receive truants who are picked up during the instructional day. These students will have the opportunity to continue their education while at the centers, and staff will work with students and their families to provide necessary supports to ensure all students achieve and graduate ready for post-secondary education or the world of work.
Jacksonville United Against Truancy (JUAT), a collaborative effort with members from the State Attorney's Office, DCPS, the City of Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and the Youth Crisis Center, has established the month of October as Truancy Awareness Month.
JUAT was founded in 2000. Its main goal is public awareness and the reduction of truancy.
JUAT sponsors annual community events to provide families with information on truancy and the importance of staying in school.
DCPS' students are participating in a poster contest to promote truancy awareness. The title of this contest is "Count Me In For Learning." First place winners will receive a $50 Simon gift card to a local mall.
To report a suspected truant, call our Truancy Hotline at 904.390.2043 or
click here to complete our online form.
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