Youth with disabilities are at a higher risk for involvement in the juvenile justice system. Why is this true, and what should parents and caregivers know about this issue? This series of five briefs answers these questions and provides parents with steps for protecting their children's rights in both the education and the court systems.

This report describes two studies completed by the Child Advocacy Commission of Durham, North Carolina. The Durham school system has one of the lowest retention rates of any system in the state. The studies were used to advocate for and help implement new and better dropout prevention strategies in their schools. The report also outlines the need…

Truancy is the first sign that a youngster is in trouble and that he or she may need the help of parents, teachers, and community members to get back on track. Research shows that students who become truant and eventually drop out of school put themselves at a long-term disadvantage in becoming productive citizens. Dropouts are more likely to be…

This booklet explores the necessary roles of the family and school in motivating youngsters to stay in school and to establish patterns for successful living. It covers what parents can do to develop responsible learners, and presents activities parents can use to build positive attitudes in their children about school as well as build confidence.…

The Interagency Committee for Children was formed by three Maryland government agencies: the Department of Human Resources, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and Department of Education. Committee goals are to develop services for children and families and provide a more coordinated service system for special needs children and youth. This…