Truancy and a 504 plan

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Specializes in Coronary Care, School Nurse.

I am looking for information regarding how to handle a student with an IEP and documented significant health history that suspected of being truant. She reports missing for "health reasons" but we live in a small town and she is often seen out and about town after school hours. She misses most Mondays. Her current attendance rate is about 60%.

I understand that lack of attendance, for students with IEP/504 plans, is to be accommodated but it IS possible to be absent for valid reasons on some days and truant on others. Medically fragile kids skip school too! Do they get a free "get out of school" card? Any advice or resources on this type of situation would be appreciated. Thanks!

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Specializes in School Nursing.

Are the parents/guardians on board with this? Can you call and ask if the students condition has been exacerbated lately because you have noticed so many abscenses? Can you ask if things that go on over the weekend make the condition worse because you notice an excessive absence on Mondays? MAYBE if the parents realize you are watching, the attendance will improve. Then again, maybe not. Some battles, we just never win.

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Specializes in Coronary Care, School Nurse.

This has been an ongoing issue for this student for many years. We have discussed Homebound tutoring but mom insists that she wants the student in school all day every day.

We have shortened the school day, adjusted her schedule so she is with her friends more (social motivation), assisted with doctor appointments, made connections with the Department on Human Services...

As it is going, this student is going to graduate in a couple of years without an education in anything but working the system. I am so frustrated!

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Specializes in school nursing.

This is a tough one. 504 kids should not get a free pass to just do as they want. How about getting the physician involved? See if you can get the parent to sign a medical records release and find out if these absence are valid or not. Does the student bring physician notes when she is absent or just parent notes?

When is her annual 504 meeting due? You would need an update on her medical condition for the revew!!

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