Magna program expands youth court through Granite Communities partnership

Jordan Peterson, coordinator for Magna United Communities That Care (CTC), presented the coalition’s work and a recent transition of the local youth court into the Granite Communities Youth Court. Peterson described CTC as a community‑led prevention framework that uses local data and evidence‑based programming to reduce youth risky behavior, saying prevention yields a positive return on investment and pointing to studies of long‑term reductions in youth substance use and crime.

Peterson said the youth court has expanded partnership work with the Granite School District and Utah State University to ensure sustainability and to reach a larger population: the Granite Communities network now covers 87 schools across 18 ZIP codes, while maintaining a Magna location that serves local youth. Amber Lietz, who helped develop the youth court, explained that youth are referred through three pathways (school administration for school‑rule violations, courts for class C misdemeanors or infractions, or direct referrals) and that participation requires a parent or guardian and an accountability process to make amends.

The presenters described ongoing work to update bylaws, publish an annual report, and to share 2025 survey and evaluation data; they asked for council input as the group finalizes its action plan and noted funding comes through state and federal grants and local allocations. Council members asked about board composition and reappointments; the presenters said the new structure includes a key leader board and community sectors, and invited council members to attend meetings and provide feedback.