MEMPHIS, Tenn. — It’s an event that students look forward to every year- the day they get their brand new bikes for perfect attendance.
The Shelby County District Attorney said this year approximately 245 Shelby County students will be given bikes as part of the Truancy Reduction Program this Saturday on Tiger Lane.
Last year, WREG reported 211 children had perfect attendance.
The year before that it was 236.
“I am so proud of these students for their dedication and hard work throughout the school year,” said D.A. Amy Weirich. “Even under the best of circumstances, achieving perfect attendance is not easy. The parents, grandparents and guardians also should be congratulated.”
In all, fourteen local schools, including Ford Road Elementary, Magnolia Elementary, Hawkins Mill Elementary, Hickory Ridge Elementary, Alton Elementary, Winridge Elementary, Chickasaw Middle, Hamilton Middle, Sherwood Middle, Hickory Ridge Middle, Ridgeway Middle, Georgian Hills Middle, and two others, all participate in the program every year.
The program aims to keep students in school so they won’t be involved in youth crime, which statistically is higher during the school day.
Since the program was founded, the truancy numbers have reportedly decreased for those schools participating.
It also provides mentors to students from the local communities.
If you would like to be a mentor, click here.
For more information on mentors, click here.
