Truancy Diversion Program
Keeping Kids in School
Understanding Truancy
Truancy is a complex community problem and is considered a “gateway crime,” as youth involved in the juvenile court system generally are truant youths. Truancy is directly correlated with socio-economic problems related to ethnicity and poverty.
What is the Truancy Diversion Program?
The Truancy Diversion Program [TDP] is offered by the Eighth Judicial District Court to reduce absenteeism in Clark County schools in an effort to reduce the number of youth entering the formal juvenile justice system. TDP supports students and their families to address students’ school attendance, behavior and grades.
How does the program work?
When a school signs up for TDP, a volunteer Community Judge, accompanied by a Family Advocate, and each school’s appointed Educational Liaison, meet with students and their families on a WEEKLY basis to address the student’s attendance record, grades and behavioral issues. The team assists students to focus on the importance of school success and achieve their weekly goals of attendance, homework completion and appropriate classroom behavior, while providing positive reinforcement. If needed, family resource centers, shelters, youth services, and/or social service information/referrals are also provided.
| STUDENT BENEFITS | FAMILY BENEFITS | SCHOOL BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|
| Increase School Attendance Improve Grades/Class Participation Learn to Make and Keep Goals Support/Help for Students (tutoring/counseling) Incentives Connect with School Community |
Assistance with Child’s Success Strengthen & Support Family Unit Assistance/Referrals for Family: -Community Programs -Community Support Services -Counseling Referrals |
Increase Students’ Attendance Increase Students’ Grades Positive Student Attitudes Improved School/Community Links Improves Compulsory Attendance |
Students who participate in TDP receive incentives when they reach specific goals, increase attendance, improve grades and demonstrate appropriate classroom behaviors. Upon completion of the program, students receive a graduation certificate. Following successful program completion, the students are seen monthly to ensure continued success in school.
For more information on the Truancy Diversion Program please contact the TDP Coordinator at
702-455-1755 or TDP@clarkcountycourts.us.