Bellevue School District v. E.S.

¶28 (dissenting) — E.S. was brought before the bench without an attorney at her side. The commissioner found her to be a truant and entered an order that, if violated, could lead to sanctions, including house arrest, work crew, and detention. This was the critical hearing for E.S. Schools are required “where appropriate” to try to reduce absences by providing tutoring, family services, alternative schooling, or adjusting course loads. RCW 28A-.225.020(l)(c). After a hearing finding truancy, the focus of the proceeding shifts to the student’s compliance with the court order. It is thus the…