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District attorney: Truancy program helped most participants cut absences and promoted 93% of attendees
Summary
Jimmy LG, who runs the Truancy Assessment and Service Center, told the Beauregard Parish School Board the program served 374 students this year, 356 completed it, about 70% reduced truancy, and 93% were promoted to the next grade; he urged continued board support.
Jimmy LG, the district attorney who oversees the Truancy Assessment and Service Center, presented program results to the Beauregard Parish School Board on June 11.
He reported that 374 students participated during the year and 356 completed the program. Of those participants, about 70% experienced a reduction in truancy, and 93% were promoted to the next grade. “Absences dramatically decrease after they're contacted by this program,” Jimmy LG said, summarizing the service’s effect on attendance and student outcomes.
LG described the program as collaborative, involving school board staff, law enforcement, school resource officers and school principals, and noted outside recognition including a leaders-in-law-enforcement award from a regional foundation. He asked the board to continue funding the program as part of the FY2027 budget.
During follow-up discussion the presenter explained the district’s policy on excused and unexcused absences: typical excused reasons include documented medical visits, athletic trips, field trips and bereavement; elementary students present through 11:30 a.m. are counted present for the day; high school credit depends on Carnegie-minute requirements for each class. Board members were referred to local school administration or board policy for individual parent questions.
LG said the program’s reductions in absences increase the likelihood students progress academically and avoid later involvement with the criminal justice system. The board received the report during the meeting and did not take separate action beyond considering funding as part of the budget process.
