08/26/2026
RCS, RPD and Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office Move to Strengthen Partnership to Reduce Chronic Student Absenteeism
RICHMOND, Indiana (August 25, 2026) - Richmond Community Schools, the Richmond Police Department, and the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office announced a joint effort to reduce chronic student absenteeism and support families before issues rise to the level of legal action.
Research consistently shows that students who are chronically absent—typically missing 10% or more of the school year—are more likely to struggle with reading and math achievement, experience lower graduation rates, and face greater risks of social, emotional, and long-term economic challenges. Regular attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic success because it provides students with consistent access to instruction, relationships, and the support they need to learn and thrive.
Under Indiana's Attendance Law, schools must notify parents or guardians of unexcused absences before any legal intervention occurs. If habitual truancy continues, parents or guardians can face a Class B misdemeanor or, in more serious cases, a Level 6 felony.
"This partnership lets us respond consistently and get families help before things escalate," said Kyle Weatherly, Chief of Police for the Richmond Police Department.
"Our priority is keeping kids in the classroom and connecting families with support early — legal action is always a last resort," said Dr. Curtis Wright, Superintendent of Richmond Community Schools.
"When appropriate efforts to resolve chronic absenteeism have not been successful, our office will take the steps necessary to ensure parents and guardians are held accountable under Indiana law," said Ashley Green, Wayne County Chief Deputy Prosecutor.
The agencies will share attendance data, coordinate notifications and support services for families, and involve police and prosecutors only when habitual truancy persists despite school intervention. As part of the partnership, RPD School Resource Officers will take a more active role in communicating with the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office on attendance cases.
Parents and guardians with attendance concerns are encouraged to contact their child's school directly. RCS family liaisons may be able to assist families in connecting with community resources.
https://4.files.edl.io/554c/08/26/26/001655-e5246521-bfb8-464f-aff2-3c119f10d50b.pdf
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