Evaluation of the Truancy Court Diversion Program in the District of Columbia, 2011-12

Group: Urban Institute District of Columbia Crime Policy Institute

URL: http://www.dccrimepolicy.org/Studies/images/Final-Truancy-Court-Diversion_1.pdf

Description

An evaluation of the Truancy Court Diversion Program (TCDP) found that despite significant implementation challenges, parent-child communication and youths' attitudes towards school both improved. A voluntary program for middle school students at risk for chronic truancy, TCDP involves judicially-led sessions that address student attitudes combined with case management and service referrals to address family-level attendance barriers. The evaluation found that families of truant youth had high levels of need and were successfully connected to services. The evaluation suggests that the program should be formalized and better supported through dedicated resources and support from school administration prior to expansion.

Tags

juvenile justice, truancy, status offense, courts, diversion, programs, students, delinquents

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