RAIDER PEER COURT
A student-led program for students that provides a second chance for those who have received school-related citations from law enforcement.
What exactly is Raider Peer Court?
Peer Court is a voluntary program that offers students a second chance if they have received certain school-related citations from law enforcement. Trained student volunteers act as the court to determine appropriate restorative actions. The main goals are to ensure youth are held accountable in a meaningful way, to encourage and help students learn from their mistakes, and to prevent a formal juvenile record.
Who can take part in Peer Court?
Participants must be students who have committed a minor ordinance violation for the first time on property that is owned, rented, or controlled by the Two Rivers Public School District.
Members of Peer Court consist of students who have received training from the School Resource Officer on all aspects of court procedures. The School Resource Officer supervises the courtroom and provides guidance when needed. Each court member must take an oath to uphold the privacy and confidentiality of all cases and participant information.
When and where does Peer Court take place?
Raider Peer Court appearances take place in person on Thursdays during Resource from 9:44 AM to 10:31 AM in Room 209 at the Two Rivers High School. Students receive written notice on the date of the incident or soon after, detailing when and where to appear.
How does Raider Peer Court function?
Peer Court focuses on learning new skills and taking responsibility instead of facing consequences or punishment. To participate, a student must show a desire to learn from their mistakes and a willingness to tackle those issues. Members of Peer Court work with the student to understand them better and develop a personalized plan to support the student while offering chances for growth, education, and practicing new skills to avoid similar issues in the future.
Once the requirements are successfully fulfilled, the case is closed without a formal conviction on their record. If the ordered sentence is not completed, a citation will be issued for Municipal Court.
What type of restorative actions could be ordered?
Possible options may consist of one of more of the following:
- Poster project: Design an informative poster to serve as a powerful educational tool on the dangers of your specific offense. Avoid including your name, as the poster will be displayed in the area where the offense occurred.
- Letter of apology: A written letter acknowledging responsibility to the involved individual(s).
- Lunch Bunch: A small, informal group that meets at lunch for four days (Tuesday to Friday) to strengthen social skills.
- Avoid contact: Limit contact with a specified student or area of the school, except when necessary for academic purposes.
- Community Service: perform unpaid work that benefits the school community.
- Absolute accountability: Log to assist you and teachers in tracking the time spent out of the classroom when you ask to leave during classroom time.
- Online lessons: Report to lunch detention to complete EVERFI programming. EVERFI is an online platform that delivers engaging, interactive lessons that educate students on health, wellness, and/or social-emotional learning.
- Mediation: A communication process facilitated by Officer La Tour to help resolve a dispute between two or more people.
- Wellness sessions: Attend the weight room during ACP on Thursdays to complete a workout of your choice. Mr. La Tour will verify your attendance.
What steps can students take to prepare for Peer Court?
- Choose an outfit that does not have a hat or hood of any kind.
- Speak clearly and avoid using slang or curse words.
- Share your progress by discussing your future goals and what you’ve learned from your experiences, as well as where you could use the most support.
What ways can parents participate in Peer Court?
Adult involvement is not permitted in Peer Court to create a safe space where students can support one another. Here’s how to help your student prepare for court:
- Accountability: Discuss proper behavior and appearance in court, while also offering guidance and emotional support.
- Communication: Communicating with your student and the School Resource Officer is essential for achieving a positive outcome!
How can I get in touch with Officer La Tour?
- Email: amanda.latour@trschools.k12.wi.us
- Direct phone: 920-793-7187