NCJ Number
80914
Date Published
1981
Length
39 pages
Annotation
This handbook describes the roles and responsibilities of school districts, police, and juvenile courts in relation to juvenile justice issues involving students in the public schools of Missouri.
Abstract
The manual is intended to help these agencies work cooperatively and effectively in dealing with student problems that require the cooperation or intervention of police or juvenile authorities. School personnel are also advised to be familiar with the policies and procedures established by their local school board. A school district advisory committee consisting of community representatives, juvenile court officers, police officers, representatives of the Division of Family Services, and school district personnel is recommended to promote effective communication on issues related to juveniles. The appointment of contact persons for both the district and each school is also recommended to provide liaison among the school or district, the police, and the courts. Guidelines are provided for coordination with the police department on such matters as crime incidents and absenteeism, coordination with the juvenile court and other agencies regarding such situations as treatment specified by the court or child abuse and neglect cases. Suggested procedures are also provided regarding the confidentiality of records and information; administrative policies and procedures related to student conduct, behavior, and discipline; conduct on school buses; attendance and truancy; suspension; and expulsion. The role of the police is discussed with respect to such issues as interview, interrogation, arrest, taking a youth into custody, and the use of handcuffs. The laws and regulations governing juvenile courts in Missouri are summarized. Explanations are also given of four common court dispositions: informal adjustment, conditional dismissal, jurisdiction and supervision, and detention. A glossary, a figure, and sample forms used in cases involving students are provided.