The Becca Law

Effective the 1995-96 school year, the BECCA Law revised the procedures for enforcing the State Compulsory Attendance Law.  It requires the reporting of unexcused absences and the filing of petitions with the juvenile court to reduce truancy.  The BECCA bill assists parents and the school in keeping students in school with the support of the juvenile court system, police and outside agencies.

By Law Schools Are Required ....

· To monitor student attendance.

·  After two all day unexcused absences (8 periods) to conduct a student and/or parent conference.  You will be notified by letter.  The meetings are usually held once a month at the district offices.

· Not later than the seventh all day unexcused absence (28 periods) within any month to file a petition with the juvenile court.

· Not later than the tenth all day unexcused absence (40 periods) in the current school year to file a petition.

· You will then receive a notification from the court providing you with a court summons.

· Students who continue to violate their court order will be summoned to court  again for a Show Cause Hearing at which a variety of sanctions, including juvenile detention, can be applied by the Juvenile Court judge.

· Students who fail to show up in court will be issued bench warrants and are liable for arrest and detention until a hearing can be held.