Truancy can be a slippery slope. What starts out as a one-time skipped class may result in a missed assignment, then disengagement and continued avoidance of classes -- and possibly even dropping out of high school.

The Miami-Dade Schools Police Department would like to raise the awareness in our community on a pressing issue.....TRUANCY. As you know, truancy significantly hinders the educational welfare of our students as well as limit career opportunities for the future as a result of poor education. When students are truant, they miss educational/instruction time, and are left unsupervised. This can lead to the child coming into contact with the criminal justice system, controlled substances and other delinquent behavior(s).

The Superintendent has clearly stated his position on truancy and recognizes the damaging effects it has on our District and children. MDSPD has actively begun conducting truancy sweeps and recently purchased vehicles to transport truants back to schools. One other tool used to combat truancy is the TRUANCY HOTLINE. This is a number that citizens can call and report truants anywhere in Miami-Dade County.

The number is staffed during school days, from 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. After hours, there is a message machine that offers instructions in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole. I should also add that this initiative was passed as a resolution at the Dade Chiefs Association, which ensures that all other law enforcement agencies within the county will cooperate.

The number to report truants is 305-995.COPS (2677). MDSPD recognizes that the program will only be successful if the public is aware of it.