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every presence matters.

every presence matters.

Since 1991, Truancy Intervention Project Georgia has worked to break generational cycles rooted in inequity and shifting the narrative on absenteeism—one “marked present” at a time.

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A fourth of Atlanta students are chronically absent from school.

Kids can’t control their circumstances, yet school attendance shapes their future. Truancy laws, though well-intended, often lead to punitive enforcement instead of addressing root causes like mental health struggles, housing insecurity, and basic needs.

We believe in a different approach—one that meets students and families where they are.

Chronic Absenteeism in the Atlanta area
2021-2022

What We Do

Our mission is to empower Georgia’s youth through strategic partnerships with schools, courts, and communities. We are dedicated to enhancing educational and life outcomes and fostering a future rich with opportunities that uplift communities across Georgia.

Every truancy case is unique. Everyone deserves to be heard.

TIP provides pro bono legal representation and advocacy for students experiencing chronic absenteeism, ensuring that vulnerable youth have access to legal rights and support.

Did you know...

TIP attorneys have donated over $5.5 million worth of billable time in support of child and family advocacy.

Empowerment starts with understanding.

Our early intervention programs equip families and students with the knowledge they need to understand the legal and personal consequences of truancy before it escalates. By educating communities about their rights and responsibilities, we foster informed decision-making and help prevent unnecessary court involvement. 

Did you know...

The average age of students referred to TIP for chronic absenteeism is just 9 years old.

Families deserve support, not judgment.

Progress begins with empathy. At TIP, we recognize that students can’t focus on learning when they’re facing trauma or their most basic needs are unmet. That’s why we partner closely with families, schools, and community organizations to identify and remove the real-life obstacles that stand in the way of education—whether it’s housing instability, food insecurity, or unmet mental health needs. By meeting families where they are and connecting them to critical resources, we build trust, foster stability, and help students reclaim their path to success.

Did you know...

The youth mental health crisis is one of the top contributors to chronic absenteeism. In Georgia, 11% of children have been diagnosed with depression or anxiety.

Chronic absenteeism doesn’t stop at the Atlanta city limits.

Across Georgia, thousands of students face the same invisible barriers to education. That’s why TIP is working to scale our impact, developing a replicable model that schools statewide can adopt. Through direct service, strategic partnerships, and advocacy, we’re driving systemic change that moves beyond punishment and toward prevention, compassion, and equity. 

Did you know...

Statewide in Georgia, more than 1 in 5 kids is chronically absent from school.

Our Impact

2022-2023

0

students and families provided with pro bono representation

$ 0 M
billable hours donated by TIP volunteer attorneys
0

students rewarded during Attendance Awareness Month

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Our mission is to empower Georgia’s youth through strategic partnerships with schools, courts, and communities.

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Dr. Tonya Malone Ferguson
Executive Director

Dr. Tonya Malone Ferguson brings over 24 years of experience in the nonprofit sector to the role of Executive Director at the Truancy Intervention Project Georgia. Having previously served as the organization’s Programs Manager for 16 years, Dr. Ferguson played a pivotal role in shaping and expanding programs that support at-risk youth and their families. After an eight-year hiatus, during which she gained further leadership experience in nonprofit administration and education field, Dr. Ferguson returns to lead the Truancy Intervention Project with the continued commitment to the organization’s mission.

Adrian Wright
Director of Operations

Adrian is a native of North Carolina and proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Raised with the belief that “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others”, it instilled in him a deep-rooted commitment to making a positive difference. Professionally, Adrian has a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the nonprofit sector. He is committed to seeking new ways to enhance volunteer experiences, through strategic planning and operational efficiency. Adrian lives OTP with his wife and two kids.

Vonciel Turner
Senior Staff Attorney

As an Atlanta native, Vonciel zealously advocates for the wonderful children and families in the Metro Atlanta area. She received a Bachelor’s in International Business and a minor in Poverty Alleviation from Southeastern University and went on to obtain her Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law. During her time at GSU, Vonciel enjoyed an incredible externship with the Truancy Intervention Project and cherished her studies of Juvenile Law, Children’s Rights and Education Law. Upon graduation, Vonciel began representing clients at a local law firm and then went on to work as a Judicial Staff Attorney for the Superior Court of Fulton County. Vonciel is passionate about the principles of service, justice, and education and she is honored to join in the fight for the bright futures that all children deserve.

Arianna Villegas
Family Support Services Manager

Arianna was born and raised in Metro Atlanta. She attributes her passion for social work to her (late) great grandmother, who was a fierce advocate for those in need. Arianna received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Georgia State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Georgia. Upon graduation, she immediately began working in child welfare. She has experience serving children and families within the foster care and healthcare systems. Arianna is excited to continue advocating for youth and families to receive the support and services needed to be successful. She currently resides in Metro Atlanta with her partner, their daughter, and their dog.

Josh Swiger, Board Chair

Partner – Weinberg, Wheeler, Hudgins, Gunn & Dial

Honorable Caren E. Cloud

Judge – Fulton County Juvenile Court

Derin Dickerson

Partner – Alston & Bird

Tonya Ferguson, PhD, LCSW, Executive Director

Truancy Intervention Project Georgia

Rev. Rebekah Close LeMon, Treasurer

Senior Pastor – Trinity Presbyterian Church

Liz Liston McCarty

Vice President, Strategic Philanthropy – US Soccer

Alex J. Murphy

Associate – Jones Day

Erin Payne

Associate General Counsel – CRH Americas Law Group

Paul Reeve, Secretary

Senior Director, Legal – UPS

Terry Walsh, Chair Emeritus

Partner – Alston & Bird (Retired)

Dustin Weeks

Partner – Troutman Pepper

Partners in Progress

Driving meaningful change is a community-wide effort. We’re fortunate to have these incredible partners by our side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of legal representation provided by TIP?

All legal representation provided by Truancy Intervention Georgia is free. We are committed to ensuring that every child facing truancy issues has access to quality legal support without any financial burden.

Our organization offers several key programs, including Early Intervention for school-based support, legal and court-based advocacy, and community and statewide efforts to resource, educate and connect all stakeholders.
Yes, we are open to partnerships with schools, educators, legal professionals, and community organizations. Interested parties can contact us for more information about collaboration opportunities.

We highly value the contributions of volunteers and donors. You can get involved by donating your time, skills, or financial support. More details can be found in the volunteer section of our website.

Our initiatives have played a significant role in addressing truancy and chronic absenteeism across Georgia, leading to better student attendance, academic performance, and less involvement in the juvenile justice system.

We offer a variety of resources and support for parents and guardians to assist them in understanding and tackling truancy. These resources are accessible through our various programs.

Get in Touch

Looking for legal assistance, to get involved with our mission, or to connect with our team? Start here. 

Support TIP

Give today to provide essential resources, education and opportunity to children in need.

Contact Us

Romae T. Powell Juvenile Justice Center
395 Pryor St SW # 4122
Atlanta, GA 30312
(404) 613-4741

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