ABSTRACT: BSMART is a mediation-based model of truancy intervention operated by the Center for Dispute Resolution at the University of Maryland School of Law (C-DRUM). In the spring of 2008, RYC worked with C-DRUM to develop a process and outcome evaluation plan. The current research project aims to:1) describe the program model, including program theory, goals, service design and participant performance indicators; 2) describe the target population; 3) describe the program’s resources, such as funding, staffing, etc.; 4) describe the program services; 5) describe what works well and what is challenging; and 6) identify lessons learned during implementation. The outcome evaluation objective is to examine the impact of the program on the target population. The primary outcomes of interest are school attendance, academic performance, and avoidance of delinquency. As a member of the Maryland Judiciary Research Consortium, the Institute for Government Services and Research at the University of Maryland College Park is a collaborating partner on this project. Input into research activities will also come from a research advisory committee comprised of individuals with content and methodological expertise. PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Diane DePanfilis, PhD Co-Investigators: Clara Daining, Ph.D, and Corey Shdaimah, Ph.D FUNDING SOURCE: State Justice Institute Maryland Judiciary, Administrative Office of the Courts AMOUNT OF FUNDING: $15,000 PROJECT DATES: 2008-2009
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