A clear understanding of truancy is fundamental to prevention activities. Before embarking on such efforts, those involved need to understand what exactly "truancy" means, related causes and effects, and the scope of the problem.

The Overview, Fact Sheets, and Frequently Asked Questions components of this page provide a starting point for learning about truancy. They also present facts and statistics that bring the issue into sharper focus.

Additional information about truancy is available from the Three A's for School Success, which emphasize that truancy is a complex problem requiring a comprehensive response.

Relevant Legislation includes federal laws related to truancy and a summary of state compulsory attendance laws.