School-Based Diversion Initiative Case Study

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Connecticut Zero tolerance policies in Connecticut’s schools were contributing to high rates of School arrest and expulsion, particularly for youth with behavioral and mental health needs. In response, the state created the School-Based Diversion Initiative (SBDI) which uses mental health responders (provided by Emergency Mobile Psychiatric Service[EMPS] units) to respond to school-based incidents involving youth with mental health needs as an alternative to contacting the police or referring to juvenile court. The program is designed to reduce the number of school arrests, suspensions and expulsions by linking youth with mental health needs who are at risk of juvenile system involvement with appropriate community based services and supports.

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