Child abuse and neglect referrals fell from 1702 in 1997 to 1691 in 1998. In Chatham County the total number of youth fatalities dropped from 33 in 1994 to 20 in 1998. Approximately three-fourths of Chatham County s young people age 16 to 19 are in school. Bad News Low Birthweight babies born in Chatham County increased for teen mothers 15-17. Only black females showed a declining rate.
Black females continue to have the highest attendance rate.
In 1997-98 attendance rates for all 9 th grade students declined. Child abuse and neglect referrals fell from 1702 in 1997 to 1691 in 1998. In Chatham County the total number of youth fatalities dropped from 33 in 1994 to 20 in 1998.