THE LAW
Washington State’s truancy law, commonly known as the BECCA Bill, requires children ages 8–18 to attend school regularly. The law also applies to children ages 6–8 who are enrolled in public school.
A child may be in violation of the Washington State Truancy Law if they have:
• Seven or more unexcused absences in one month
• Fifteen or more unexcused absences in one school year
SCHOOL DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITIES
Before taking legal action, school districts attempt interventions to support attendance. These actions include:
• Notifying parents or guardians of unexcused absences
• Scheduling a parent–school conference after three unexcused absences in one month
• Implementing support systems, such as a Community Engagement Board, to help remove barriers to attendance
COURT HEARINGS
It’s expected the school filing the petition, as well as the student, parent, or both (depending on who the petition was filed against) appear for their scheduled truancy hearing. If the Court determines the student, parent, or both, are in violation of the attendance requirements, and proper steps have been taken to correct without success, then an order of truancy can be entered, establishing jurisdiction of the Court and requiring the student to attend school with no further unexcused absences. Failing to abide by a Court order may result in a contempt hearing and further review of the matter before a Judicial Of
If intervention efforts fail, the school district is legally required to file a truancy petition with the juvenile court. Parents must demonstrate reasonable efforts to support their child’s attendance.
If the judge finds the student truant, the court may order:
• The child to attend school regularly or transfer to another school
• Mandatory community service, mentor meetings, or counseling
• Alcohol, drug, or mental health evaluations
• Fines of up to 25 dollars per day for the parent if they fail to cooperate
CONTEMPT HEARINGS
If the student continues missing school after a court order, the school must update the court. The student or parent may face a contempt hearing for violating the order.
WHAT PARENTS CAN DO
• Talk to your student
• Make school a priority
• Communicate with teachers
• Build a relationship with the school counselor
• Stay in contact with the attendance office
• Ensure your contact information is current
• Attend parent–teacher conferences
• Get involved
CONTACT
Benton County Juvenile Justice Center
5600 W. Canal Dr.
Kennewick, WA 99336
Sheila Davidson, ext. 2761 Sheila.Davidson@co.benton.wa.us
Phone: (509) 783‑2151
Fax: (509) 736‑2728
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed daily: 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m.