The purpose of the School Attendance Mediation Program (formerly known as Truancy Prevention Mediation Program) is to address a student’s high occurrence of unexcused absences in a supportive, non-punitive way. With the help of a mediator -- who acts as a neutral third party -- families and school staff will meet in a confidential and private setting to identify the issues that become barriers to consistent school attendance. Once these barriers are identified, everyone will work together to identify a solution. The mediator will not take sides or decide who is right or wrong.

The DRC has partnered with schools in the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor districts to provide this service at NO COST to the families or district. This service is supported by private donors and a grant award from the James A. and Faith Knight Foundation. If you would like to explore implementing this service in your school building, please call The DRC for a phone consultation with a coordinator at 734-222-3745 in Washtenaw, or in Livingston County 517-546-6007 or email us.