The Whitehall-Coplay School Board discussed its truancy elimination plan during the education and student activities committee meeting Aug. 26.

"This past year we've had an increase in truancy, so we tried to reach out and have a relationship with Judge [Robert C.] Halal," Assistant to the Superintendant Dr. Lorie Hackett said.

Whitehall High School Assistant Principal Matthew Ziegenfuss helped create the high school and middle school protocol to eliminate truancy.

"It brings parents and students and school together from different perspectives and helps identify strengths, benefits and consequences," Ziegenfuss said.

The penalty for truancy is a citation for both parents and students that can result in a fine of up to $300. Students can also have their driver's license suspended for up to 90 days.