County reports 53 truancy/diversion referrals with 89% improvement, staff say

Sawyer County staff reported measurable gains from the diversion and truancy program during the Aug. 6 HHS meeting, including referral and outcome statistics and examples of academic progress.

"We had 53 referrals and 89% with improvement," Julia (HHS administration) said while presenting program slides. Staff also reported that 7 of 7 students in a recent cohort earned diplomas and five graduated early, and they highlighted reduced court involvement and improved school engagement as outcomes of early intervention and case management.

Board members said the program’s emphasis on early supports, family engagement and community partnerships (schools, law enforcement, tribal partners and mental‑health providers) helped avoid costly juvenile justice involvement and improved long‑term prospects for youth served by the program.