A Parent’s Guide to Truancy:

A Parent’s Guide to Truancy was developed in partnership with Mass Appleseed to help families better understand and navigate the Child Requiring Assistance (CRA) process when a school files a case due to unexcused absences.

The guide breaks down a complex legal process into clear, accessible information for caregivers. It explains what a CRA case is, what families can expect if they are brought to court for truancy, and how parents and caregivers can advocate effectively for themselves and their children. By demystifying the system, the guide aims to empower families with knowledge and practical tools at a critical moment.

There are many reasons why a child may struggle to attend school regularly. This resource is designed to help prevent unnecessary court involvement and minimize disruption to a child’s education by equipping families with the information they need to respond confidently and proactively.

The guide was spearheaded by Josh Palackal, a 2L at Boston University School of Law, with support from Mass Appleseed and input from Massachusetts Advocates for Children, CPCS’s EdLaw Project, and members of Mass Appleseed’s Board of Directors.

Special thanks to Joshua Palackal for his leadership on this project, as well as MA Appleseed Board members Amy Fabiano, Peter Tobani, and Amy Karp, and colleagues, members of the Chapter 222 School Discipline Coalition, and volunteer Caroline Hebert (Northwestern Pritzker School of Law 2L) for all of their feedback and insights throughout the development of this guide.