AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Truancy is something both schools and parents discourage and a new program is doing its best to prevent teens from playing hooky or dropping out.
"This is not not just a youth issue -- it's a family dynamics issue. Any kind of progress like this program is more successful when the youth and their family support systems are involved -- support systems are very important for anyone being successful in making change," said Janice James, UCAP Coordinator.
Services To At Risk youths and their families also know as "STAR" is a program offered through the Texas Panhandle Centers.
Their goal is to not only work with teens to stay in school, but also their families in hopes they will receive their diploma for a brighter future.
"Teens who stay in school tend to be more employable, stay employed longer and tend to go to college. Therefore probably earn about four times more over the course of their lifespan," said James.
The program is free of charge and services teens ages 14 through 17.
Families and teens must register by April 15.
For more information and to register call (806) 359 2005.
