The Truancy Diversion Program (TDP) is an incentive based specialty court program overseen by Family Court. TDP is held one morning a week, within a school for an entire school year. Judges wear a robe and preside at a table in the front of the room. Sessions usually begin between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and last about two hours.
The Judge ( attorneys, licensed mental health professionals, law enforcement and other qualified applicants) meets with the student and family to formally identify and address what issues act as barriers to the student’s engagement in their education. The TDP judge monitors the students’ progress, sets weekly goals for the student, and rewards positive behavior.The interaction between judge and family provides participants with enhanced social skills and a sense of increased empowerment, leading to more effective parenting, better communication and an increased appreciation of the value of education.