The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Juvenile Justice Bureau and Child Care Fund (CCF), in partnership with the Michigan Department of Education and the National Resource Center for the Transformation of Youth Justice, are inviting school leaders to participate in upcoming Diversion and Alternatives Reform Training (DART) sessions this summer.
Schools play a critical role as protective factors in the lives of young people, and these sessions are designed to support collaborative, prevention-focused approaches that help keep students engaged in school and connected to the resources they need.
The virtual trainings will focus on practical strategies and partnerships that can improve student outcomes while reducing suspensions, expulsions, truancy and unnecessary involvement in the juvenile justice system.
Topics will include:
- School-based diversion programs and guiding principles
- Restorative practices, PBIS and trauma-responsive approaches
- Positive Youth Justice frameworks
- Collaboration with community organizations and system partners
- The role of youth, families and School Resource Officers (SROs)
- Access to community-based supports and funding opportunities
- Research on schools as a protective factor in youth development
Participants will also receive:
- Guidance on developing or expanding school-based diversion approaches
- Information about the DART Technical Assistance Project
- Opportunities to connect with peers and partners across Michigan
- Discussion of statewide youth justice and diversion best practices
These sessions are intended for school leaders, education partners, youth justice professionals, community organizations, service providers and others interested in prevention and system improvement.
Session Dates
Building leaders are encouraged to consider participating in these important conversations focused on supporting students, strengthening school-community partnerships and improving long-term outcomes for youth and families.