How to Become a Truant Officer

School truancy is when a student is absent from school without permission. Truancy can be a serious problem, especially when children are left alone with no adult supervision. At worst, truancy can lead to violent crime. At least, it can lead to an unsuccessful, unproductive life. Read on to learn how to launch your career as a truant officer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Think about the importance of enforcing school attendance. Most states require attendance in some kind of school, whether public, private or homeschool, until at least age 16. To become a truant officer and help with this problem in society, finish your own education by completing high school.
2. Consider going to college. Requirements and job opportunities vary from state to state, so check with your area. College classes in social work, counseling, communication and public relations can be helpful in obtaining government employment if you want to become a truant officer.
3. Study law enforcement or get a job with the police force. In some states, a truant officer is appointed by the state government. Most state-appointed truant officer positions are held by a person who is also a sheriff or deputy sheriff. Starting a career as a police officer and working your way up to become a truant officer is excellent career advancement.
4. Pursue employment with the juvenile court system. Some states have full-time truant officers that work in connection with the court system to monitor juvenile delinquent behavior.
5. Check with your local public school district. Some school districts retain truant officers on staff. Some also employ off-duty police officers to function as truant officers.

Tips & Warnings

• A truant officer, especially one who is also a sheriff or police officer, has the power to arrest a child and take him to his parents or to the school he is supposed to attend. Make sure you relate well with children as a disciplinarian, but also one who can show compassion.

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