Long hours. Mountains of paperwork. One urgent need after another. For a school social worker, the to-do list is more than a “caseload.” It is the profound responsibility of holding a student’s hand through some of life’s most difficult moments. In the midst of a national youth mental health crisis, their role has never been more vital. Day after day, school social workers are a steadfast presence for struggling students—the bridge between the classroom and the world outside. At Truancy Intervention Project (TIP), we know that the fight against chronic absenteeism is a collaborative effort that owes

Truancy Intervention Project (TIP) kicked off 2026 on an optimistic note after a busy 2025 that brought meaningful policy progress under SB 123, encouraging improvements in attendance rates, and new partnerships and leadership. One of the biggest milestones was finalizing our strategic plan for TIP’s future. Last year, we shared a preview of TIP’s new strategic direction: deepening our support for students and families, expanding early intervention and incentive programs, and strengthening the partnerships that make this work possible. Now, in our 35th anniversary year, we are focused on the critical next step: building the internal capacity

During the 2024–2025 school year, Georgia’s chronic absenteeism rate was almost 20%, with more than 360,000 students missing 10% or more of school days. Behind each statistic is a child facing barriers to school attendance that are often beyond their control. As the only nonprofit in Georgia solely dedicated to reducing chronic absenteeism and promoting positive attendance habits, the Truancy Intervention Project (TIP) partners with schools and families to help get kids back on track. This work includes representing students and families in truancy court—ensuring they are heard, supported, and engaged in school. “Intervention is required for

Chronic absenteeism is a serious challenge, but 2025 offered powerful reasons to believe it’s solvable. We saw students return to class, families get the support they needed, partners step up in new ways, and systems begin to shift. Each moment is a reminder that by showing up, again and again, we can rewrite the story. The passage of SB 123 marked a significant turning point, formally recognizing chronic absenteeism as a crisis and laying the groundwork for more coordinated, statewide action. When 13-year-old T.R. came to TIP with 28 unexcused absences, her future felt uncertain. Within months,

Every act of kindness helps us step in sooner, show up stronger, and support more kids. In uncertain times, kids need something steady to hold onto. For some, a stable home provides that foundation. Not all are so fortunate. Today, nearly half of U.S. families with children under six struggle to meet at least one basic need, like food and housing. As hardship rises, school becomes more than a place to learn. It’s a warm meal. A structured routine. Caring adults. The painful irony is that the children who need this support system the most are often

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we recognize many students’ unseen battles. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline or call 1-800-799-SAFE for support and help locating a nearby shelter. RAINN.org also provides free, confidential support services and information for survivors of sexual violence. “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” — Wendy Mass  Chronic absenteeism is rarely just about a lack of motivation or disinterest in learning. Behind many missed days are deeper, more painful realities, rooted in trauma, unmet