Veronica, I've been a teacher for 28 years, and I have had quite a few kids like the one you describe. I agree with all who said to get social services involved, or the school nurse. A kid like this would require the team at my school to file a "Child in need of serices" i.e. suspicion of neglect or abuse with the state. Hold the kid to the same expectations that you have for the others, but let him know you will listen. There has got to be a major reason for the excessive absences that is not his fault. He will remember you as someone who cared, even if it's out of your hands now. In Massachusetts, teachers are mandated reporters of neglect; can you call the Dept. of Social Services if no one else will?

In regards to the behavior disordered kids not being placed in a special class...there is absolutely nothing a principal can do if parents will not consent to testing or placement. If they break the school rules, they can be suspended, but that's about it. Sometimes getting other parents to complain does it. On the other hand, there really are many federal laws to follow when discipling a child who is in Special education. Perhaps this is what you are referring to, when you say the principal is worried about protecting the rights of some kids. This is part of the IDEA law and stems from the times back in the 60's and early '70's when these kids were often denied the right to go to school or were kicked out forever.