Lauren Lumpkin

Lauren Lumpkin and Robert Samuels, reporters from the Washington Post, dive into the alarming connection between student truancy and youth crime in D.C. They reveal shocking statistics, including 18,000 uninvestigated truancy reports. The duo discusses the longstanding failures in addressing absenteeism and how unmet policy commitments have worsened the situation post-COVID. They explore reasons behind truancy, such as family needs and mental health issues, and spotlight successful after-school programs that help reduce absenteeism. It's a crucial discussion on policy and community impact.