Truancy and Educational Neglect are two different types of juvenile protection proceedings initiated by Mille Lacs County Community and Veteran’s Services and the Mille Lacs County Attorney’s Office. Minnesota's Compulsory Attendance Law requires that school-age children attend school.
Parents are encouraged to consult with their school district if they have questions regarding the school’s attendance policy.
Educational Neglect
When a child under 12 has an unexcused absence, the law presumes the parent is legally responsible for that absence. A report for educational neglect is required to be made when the child has seven or more unexcused absences.
Truancy
A child over 12 who has an unexcused absence is presumed to be truant by their own conduct, and will be referred for truancy proceedings when he/she has missed at least one class period on seven different school days.