New Face of Truancy - Letters - Letter to the Editor

School Administrator, Feb, 2004 by Jan F. Dishinger

I agree with William R. Capps' evaluation of the problem in his column ("The New Face of Truancy") in the April 2003 issue.

I would add that educators also must be held accountable for their role in this problem. I have been an educator for 25 years and currently serve as the dean of students at a small rural school.

Over the years it has become apparent to me that teachers who require student attendance (by developing a curriculum that incorporates daily grades, frequent assessments and projects) are more likely to inspire positive attendance rates. Students who are required to make up their work on their time and who must complete it in a timely manner are more likely to improve their attendance.

JAN F. DISHINGER

Dean of Students,

Shawnee High School,

Wolf Lake, Ill.