He is optimistic that this will be successful. Commissioner Watness reported that in King County there is no probation department involvement. He sees the court as an accountability manager for the truants, the parents, and the schools. King County is hiring a truancy coordinator to coordinate services for truants. He feels the schools need to be provided with more intervention resources.
Early intervention is essential.
Janet Skreen reported on her experience as a commissioner in Kitsap County dealing with the truancy cases. She feels that the court has the authority to make the truants accountable. The truancy boards do not have that authority. The court can also hold the schools accountable. Universal Payment of Fines and Penalties Sue Carlson reported on the proposals currently being discussed by the Warrant Resolution Workgroup.