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Perkiomen Valley launches Youth Aid Panel; 13 students served, 80 suspension days avoided
Summary
District launched a Youth Aid Panel (YAP) in January. Coordinators reported 16 referrals (14 hearings for 13 students), 12 of 14 hearings included parent participation, and the process saved an estimated 80 days of in‑school or out‑of‑school suspension; program emphasizes restorative resolutions and mentor involvement.
District staff reported the launch and first results of a Youth Aid Panel (YAP) program designed to provide restorative, community‑based responses to student misconduct and to reduce the use of in‑school and out‑of‑school suspension.
The program, launched January 27 after months of planning with the district attorney's office and regional partners, amassed the following year‑to‑date figures the committee was given: 16 referrals (representing 15 students); 14 hearings (covering 13 students); parent attendance at 12 of 14 hearings; and an estimated 80 suspension days saved because panel resolutions kept students in school while they completed restorative obligations.
Incidents handled included five THC vape referrals, six nicotine‑vape referrals, one racial‑slur referral, one theft and one instance of student intoxication during the school day. Coordinators said the YAP process preserves confidentiality and focuses on individualized resolutions that require reflection, apology letters or restorative tasks and mentor involvement.
Staff noted the program's intent is to keep students in educational settings where appropriate, foster accountability and repair harm through restorative activities rather than prison‑style punitive measures. Coordinators said they will expand community‑service options and host informational sessions for local stakeholders.
Ending: The committee praised the program's early outcomes and asked staff to continue building community service opportunities and to provide follow‑up reporting on program growth and recidivism rates.
