During a recent meeting of the Glen County Board of Education, community support for local schools and concerns regarding student truancy were at the forefront of discussions. Board members expressed gratitude towards law enforcement and community organizations for their contributions to the school system, highlighting the importance of collaboration in supporting students and teachers.

One board member praised Chief Davis and the sheriff's office for their efforts, particularly during a recent community event where officers provided refreshments to attendees despite the extreme heat. This gesture was seen as a testament to the dedication of local law enforcement to the well-being of students and the community.

The meeting also featured a public comment segment, where Ed van Otteren, a former School Resource Officer (SRO), raised significant concerns about truancy in Glen County. He noted that while truancy is a widespread issue, the local court system's handling of cases is inadequate. Van Otteren pointed out that current policies allow for leniency, with citations issued only after students miss ten days of school. He shared a troubling example of two siblings who had missed over 40 days each year for four consecutive years, only to receive minimal consequences from the court.

Van Otteren urged the board to engage with the county's state court judge to address the legal framework surrounding truancy, emphasizing the need for more stringent measures to hold parents accountable for their children's attendance. He concluded by commending the SROs for their commitment to the school system, despite the challenges they face.

The meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in education and the need for effective strategies to combat truancy, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically.