Introduction

This is the introduction for lessons within the "Improving Responses to Youth Charged with Status Offenses" training curriculum. Click here to view the introduction in PDF form.

Each module in this curriculum includes an instructor’s guide, PowerPoint slides, and handout materials that will allow trainers with basic subject matter expertise to deliver this training to a wide range of audiences. Each section of this curriculum will require the instructor prepare in advance of the training, tailoring the materials to the jurisdiction and to the audience. This will include adding or omitting information based on the target audience’s professional role and level of familiarity with the subject matter. State and localities vary in law and practice, and fortunately, jurisdictions across the country are currently changing and improving their responses to status offenses. As a result, instructors must modify the materials to fit their jurisdiction’s law and practice, ensuring that the most current laws, policies, and practices are reflected.

Sample “scripts” are provided throughout, to help guide the discussion and highlight important points. Text from this curriculum should not be read verbatim, except where noted.

Target Audience

• Judicial Officials (e.g., Judges, Magistrates)
• Legal Professionals
• Law Enforcement
• Justice Agency Professionals
• Court Administrative Professionals
• Social Service Providers
• Education Professionals

Participant Handouts/Reference Materials

• PowerPoint Slides
• Youth Charged with Status Offenses: Definitions of Common Terms
• Other handouts listed in each module

Instructor Materials

• PowerPoint slides
• Computer with projection capability
• Projection screen
• Copies of participant handouts
• Flip chart and assorted markers

Advanced Preparation for Trainers

• Review the relevant sections of the National Standards and all listed handouts/reference materials.
• Customize content to the needs, resources, policies, and practices of your jurisdiction, including preparing additional handouts such as language from relevant policies, lists of appropriate community-based programs, etc.
• Customize content, particularly questions and activities, to the training audience based on the types of professionals attending.
• Obtain/compile copies of handouts and PowerPoint slides, along with materials necessary to complete the group activities.

Learning Objective

• Upon completion of the training, and with the aid of reference materials, participants will understand and be able to effectively advocate for and identify how to implement the principles outlined in the National Standards in their jurisdiction.