More Legal Actions Against Truant Students in Saxony

In Saxony, the number of proceedings against truant students has risen. In the 2024–25 school year, 7,924 administrative offense proceedings were initiated, according to information provided by the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs in response to an inquiry. In 2017, there were 7,113 such proceedings.

Proceedings After Five Days of Absence—Fine of Up to 1,250 Euros

Proceedings are initiated whenever a student has been absent without excuse for five days and discussions with the student and their legal guardians have been unsuccessful. In addition, the Youth Welfare Office may be involved. Under Saxony’s School Act, the administrative offense can be punished with a fine of up to 1,250 euros.

According to the data, proceedings were most frequently initiated at upper secondary schools and vocational schools. The fewest truants were recorded in high schools.

Compulsory education applies to all students, said Minister of Education and Cultural Affairs Conrad Clemens. “Anyone who deliberately stays away from school must expect strict disciplinary measures and fines. Early intervention is crucial,” emphasized the CDU politician. Currently, the framework conditions at schools are being revised to consistently counteract truancy.

In discussions with the student and parents, efforts are made from the outset to incorporate and highlight available support options. This may involve guidance counselors, school social workers, teaching assistants, and school psychologists.

There are valid reasons for leave of absence—extending vacation time is not permitted

A student may only be granted a leave of absence from school in exceptional cases. A request for a leave of absence must be submitted to the school in writing well in advance. The homeroom teacher is responsible for deciding on leaves of absence of up to two days; for longer periods, the principal makes the decision. A leave of absence due to an early or extended vacation trip is not permitted. Students have the vacation period for that purpose, as was further stated.

The following are recognized as valid reasons for a leave of absence:

• religious occasions and events, including those of other religious or ideological communities,
• important personal or family reasons and occasions, such as a wedding or a death in the family,
• participation in international student exchange programs, provided the higher school supervisory authority has approved the exchange,
• participation in academic, vocational, or artistic competitions, provided the highest school supervisory authority has approved the competition,
• active participation in athletic competitions as well as in training programs at sports centers, provided that the student’s participation is endorsed by a professional association of the State Sports Federation,
• medical treatments or convalescent stays that have been arranged or recommended by the public health department or by a health insurance company’s medical consultant.