Truancy & Residency Officer

Monique Skates, District Truancy & Residency Officer

Call 618-566-8523, ext. 5111, or email at skatesm@msd19.org.

Mascoutah School District has taken proactive steps to address truancy challenges by introducing a dedicated Truancy & Residency Officer position. Despite our truancy rate being below the state average, we recognize the importance of consistent attendance and aim to support students and families in ensuring punctual and regular school attendance. MSD19 is committed to providing every student, every day, with daily opportunities for academic and personal success.

The Truancy & Residency Officer will work closely with each school's Office and Administrative staff, supporting responsibilities such as regular phone calls, home visits, and providing support services to reduce truancy rates and enhance student engagement. Our goal is to address attendance concerns at the root, creating a safe and nurturing environment that fosters a love of learning and personal growth.

This initiative aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality education and support for all students. We anticipate that the Truancy & Residency Officer will not only improve attendance, but also contribute to a more positive and engaging learning experience for everyone.

MSD19 remains dedicated to collaborating with students, families, and the community to maintain schools as environments where students can flourish, learn, and develop crucial life skills. We are enthusiastic about the positive impact our new Truancy & Residency Officer will bring to the District and the opportunities this position will create for our students.

Illinois State Board of Education Definitions

  • Truancy: A student is truant if they miss any portion of the school day without an excuse.

  • Chronic Truancy: A student is “Chronically Truant” if they missed 5% or more of the previous 180 school days without an excuse.

  • Absenteeism: A student is absent if they miss any portion of the school day regardless of excuse.

  • Chronic Absenteeism: A student is “Chronically Absent” if they missed 10% or more of the school year regardless of excuse.