School-Based Diversion Q&A
Now that our School-Based Diversion staff is back in schools for the school year, we thought it would be a great opportunity to share a little more about the program from our team’s perspective! We asked Demitrus and Trish, two members of our School-Based Diversion team, to share about their experiences working in the program.
What is School-Based Diversion (SBD)?
“School-Based Diversion's goal is to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline. How we do that is by partnering with local schools, taking on referrals for students at risk of suspension/expulsion, and helping that young person through a restorative workshop.” - Trish
“School-Based Diversion has students from the Seattle/Highline school district that are at risk of falling through the cracks and becoming truly impacted. SBD is the first line of defense to show them that they do not have to fall victim to the system. Creating small goals that they can accomplish and letting them know the sky's the limit for them. Education is key to them becoming successful.” - Demitrus
What kind of support do you offer students?
“I offer my students a mentor and someone that they can talk to about anything. I let them know that I myself have been through alot and can relate. If I have to email teachers and help tutor them to get grades up or go walk and talk just so they can vent. A kid needs to be heard. Family dynamics at home aren't always the best either so I reach out to parents to talk and see if I can help with anything they may need. I let the participants know that I am available 24/7 so don't be afraid to call.” - Demitrus
“We offer one-on-one workshops with students and cover SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound) goals. Most importantly, we help them navigate the challenges they are facing at school and home, and serve as someone who can support them and bring them resources.” - Trish
What do you like about doing this type of work?
“I love everything about this work being able to give back to the youth, giving them guidance to help them realize their worth. Growing up I didn't have these resources available to me so I went down a long dark road that I otherwise may not have gone down. I am now taking my personal experiences and helping my youth understand that they have the help and a community behind them to support. If I can help one kid not fall into the school-to-prison pipeline then I am happy.” - Demitrus
“I love being that person who can provide them with a different type of support than what they are receiving at school or home. I see them as misunderstood most of the time, and I'm honored to be that adult who can move barriers out of the way and simply hold the door open for them on whatever path they choose.” - Trish
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