What is the Truancy Study Workgroup?

The Truancy Study Workgroup (CR-074-2023) was proposed by Council Member Oriadha and introduced by Council Members Oriadha, Watson, Olson, Fisher, Hawkins, Blegay, Burroughs, and Dernoga on September 6, 2023 and adopted October 3, 2023. Subsequent to it’s adoption, CR-010-2024 extended the deadline of the Workgroup for a period of 12 months.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated truancy and absenteeism rates among school children, with the State’s Attorney’s office noting a correlation between truancy and juvenile delinquency. As a result, the County Council established a Workgroup to study causes of truancy and whether truancy and drop-out rates increased as students returned to in-person instruction. Subsequently, the Workgroup will work with stakeholders to identify solutions to address any correlation between truancy and youth in contact with the justice system by taking into account procedural, budgetary, and/or any policy changes necessary.

How does the Truancy Study Workgroup benefit Prince George’s County?

The Workgroup aims to decrease truancy-based delinquency among PGCPS students in the County.

What is the legislative history behind the reason for forming this Work Group?

CR-010-2024 extended the length of the Truancy Study Workgroup, originally established under CR-074-2023.