Try to focus on the reasons why your 17 year old is going to drop out.  Whether it is poor performance, a lack of motivation, or social problems, the reasons people want to drop out of school are many.  Also educate your child about the difficulties that they will face if they choose to drop out of school.  Even if you were able to force your child to attend school, it would not be beneficial for them if they do not want to be there.  

Once you identify why they do not want to attend, focus on that specific problem and address it directly.  Do research together about the benefits of a high school degree, try to find alternative answers as opposed to dropping out if need be.  Maybe a switch in schools would be beneficial.  

Truancy laws and rules vary state by state, so you will have to ask a local police officer or lawyer about what legal options you may have available.  

Please feel free to call our hotline to problem solve this situation futher!  We are here to help!

Counselor, Dominic
Boys Town National Hotline-A resource for Parents and Teens
1-800-448-3000
www.parenting.org