1st and 2nd Circuit Kids, Courts and Schools

The First & Second Judicial Circuit Youth Council through a Conference Planning Working Group, has planned a one-day conference offering information, insight and continuing education credit for individuals involved with education, prevention, treatment and accountability for children at risk for abuse, neglect or delinquency as well as young offenders. The 2024 Kids, Courts, and Schools Conference in collaboration with educational institutions, judicial bodies, and community organizations, aimed at addressing the complex challenges facing the young individuals within our communities. Through a series of discussions and breakout sessions, attendees will gain valuable insights into innovative approaches and best practices for supporting juvenile development and enhancing their educational experiences. Experts from various fields including education, law, psychology, and social work will share their expertise and explore effective strategies for practicing positive outcomes for youth. Our hope is that participants will leave with actionable strategies and resources to better support the educational and developmental needs of juveniles in their communities.

The primary purpose of this conference is to provide current and future prevention and treatment specialists, child welfare, social service, mental health workers, educators, juvenile justice professionals, law enforcement, guardians ad litem, foster parents, and other interested individuals with the latest and best informational and practical tools with which to enhance their effectiveness in improving the lives of Southern Illinois children by helping to protect them from neglect or physical or emotional harm, prevent them from developing emotional or substance abuse issues or delinquent behavior, and holding them accountable for delinquent and destructive behavior with proven recidivism-reducing measures.