School Attendance Mediation

School attendance is an important predicator of school success. Students who are chronically absent are at risk of struggling academically, falling behind in reading and other subjects, and dropping out of high school. Ohio Revised Code Section 3321.191(A) provides that a student who misses ten percent (10%) of the school year for any reason is chronically absent.  Missing just two (2) or (3) days a month can lead to chronic absenteeism. Early supportive interventions can help reduce the negative effects of chronic absenteeism. See Ohio's Attendance Guide for more information.

School attendance mediation is a collaborative program courts and schools can use to promote consistent school attendance before direct court intervention is needed. It provides an opportunity for the school and family to discuss the absences and the barriers that may be causing the student to miss school in a confidential and safe environment. A neutral and impartial mediator facilitates the conversation as the school and family work together to develop a plan that will help improve school attendance.

Goals of school attendance mediation include:

• Improving the student’s school attendance.
• Minimizing the harmful effects of absenteeism.
• Assisting the family and school in working together to address the causes or barriers keeping the student from attending school.
• Building a family and school partnership and improving communication.
• Reducing the need to initiate a court truancy case.   

For more information about how to begin a school attendance mediation program in your court or school, email disputeresolution@sc.ohio.gov or call 614-387-9420.