APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – The Appleton Common Council is considering implementing a truancy ordinance to help enforce state laws requiring students under 18 to attend school.
Officials say the move comes as hundreds of students in the Appleton Area School District missed more than 50 days of school last year, increasing their risk of long-term struggles, including poverty. The proposed ordinance aims to provide support rather than punishment, according to district leaders.
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“We know what outcomes are for kids who don’t have the literacy or numeracy skills to be successful as an adult,” said Appleton Area School District Superintendent Greg Hartjes. “That’s the bottom line. That’s where the support is. That’s where the help is, and so that’s what we’re looking to do. We aren’t trying to be punitive in any way. We just simply want kids to come to school.”
If passed, the ordinance would allow officials to issue tickets to students who repeatedly miss school, similar to a speeding ticket. No final decision has been made.
