About this role
JOB DESCRIPTION Job Title: Administrator of Truancy FLSA Status: Exempt Days of Work: 220 GENERAL SUMMARY The Truancy Officer is responsible for enforcing South Carolina's compulsory school attendance laws by investigating and addressing issues related to student truancy. This role supports student success by working collaboratively with school administrators, parents, community agencies, and law enforcement to identify barriers to attendance and implement interventions that improve student engagement. The Truancy Officer conducts home visits, monitors attendance data, and facilitates interventions and referrals in order to reduce chronic absenteeism and ensure compliance with state and district attendance policies. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Other duties may be assigned.) Truancy Investigation and Enforcement: • Monitor daily attendance records to identify students exhibiting chronic absenteeism or truancy. • Investigate cases of unexcused absences through school-based meetings, phone calls, and home visits. • Enforce state and district attendance policies, including the preparation of documentation for court referrals when necessary. Intervention and Support Services: • Collaborate with school staff to implement truancy intervention plans and individualized attendance contracts. • Conduct student and family conferences to address underlying causes of absenteeism and identify needed supports. • Refer families to school counselors, social workers, or community agencies as appropriate. Home and Community Engagement: • Conduct regular home visits to engage families, assess home environments, and encourage school attendance. • Serve as a liaison between the school district and juvenile court, Department of Social Services (DSS), and other relevant agencies. Documentation and Reporting: • Maintain accurate and confidential records of attendance interventions, home visits, and communications. • Prepare reports on truancy trends, student outcomes, and compliance efforts for district and state reporting. • Testify in court proceedings as necessary regarding student attendance and intervention efforts. Prevention and Education: • Support school-wide attendance initiatives and campaigns to promote the importance of daily attendance. • Educate students, families, and staff about attendance laws and district policies. JOB SPECIFICATIONS Education and Experience: • Associate's Degree or higher in criminal justice, social work, education, or related field required. • Bachelor's Degree preferred. • Prior experience in education, law enforcement, or social services strongly preferred. • Valid South Carolina Driver's License and ability to travel throughout the district required. Knowledge: • Knowledge of South Carolina attendance laws, school policies, and juvenile court procedures. • Understanding of child development, family systems, and barriers to school attendance. • Familiarity with community resources available to support families. Skills/Effort: • Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with school staff, families, and outside agencies. • Comfortable making home visits and interacting with diverse populations. • Ability to manage sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism. Working Conditions: • School and field-based environment; frequent travel to homes and community locations required. • Must be able to walk, stand, and drive for extended periods. • May be exposed to varying weather conditions and challenging home environments. • Occasional evening hours may be required to accommodate family schedules. DISCLAIMER STATEMENT This job description is not intended as a complete listing of job duties. The incumbent is responsible for the performance of other related duties as assigned/required.