Grade Court aims to reduce recidivism and to reduce commitment of children to juvenile institutions by enhancing self-esteem and abilities of children and their families:

School attendance and academic goals provide the focus for increased structure, accountability, cooperation, and success.

A team  made up of the child, parents, school,  probation officer, and the Court  works in common to meet the goals.

Positive reinforcement for success is provided by the Court’s acknowledgment and by conditions of probation.

Sanctions for non-compliance are imposed immediately on an individual basis in order to empower parents and the school, as well as to increase accountability of the students and parents.

Probation is initially imposed for one or two years.  Grade Court is subject to modification if the child demonstrates an adequate educational foundation has been established.