Kaiako (Educators)

School Distress vs Truancy

When thinking about whether the mokopuna's non-attendance is school distress or truancy, ask these questions:

• Is it happening consistently? e.g. not just when there is a test or on sports day

• Does it manifest in distress, anxiety, fear, or violence?

• Are the whanau aware of what is happening and concerned about it?

• Do they want to attend - but can't?

• Are there underlying causes? e.g. separation anxiety, neuro-diversity, lack of connections (teacher, peers)

If you answered 'yes' to these questions, it is school distress