Diversion in Action: Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

illustration of spotlight with text Diversion in Action Spotlight Series Montgomery County Pennsylvania

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This summer, we hope you join us for our “Diversion in Action” spotlight series! We’ll be showcasing how CYJ Fellows across the country are building effective, locally tailored diversion programs through their Capstone Projects.

These stories highlight the power of cross-system collaboration, community leadership, and data-informed strategies. If you’re looking to strengthen or expand diversion efforts in your jurisdiction, don’t miss this opportunity to learn what’s working–check out our Diversion in Youth Justice Certificate Program, now accepting applications!

Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

The Montgomery County, Pennsylvania team set out to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in school-based discipline and youth justice referrals by expanding the Youth Aid Panel (YAP), an existing pre-arrest diversion program led by the District Attorney’s Office. As part of their Capstone Project, the team focused on adapting and implementing YAP within schools, creating a youth-centered alternative to arrest that supports school climate and student outcomes. 

Led by Assistant District Attorney Angela Bell, the YAP model is individualized for each participating school and emphasizes how diversion can improve school-based practices and relationships. To establish a diversion program at a new school, the team first analyzes school data to determine whether there is a need for diversion based on student arrest rates. They then meet with local law enforcement and school officials to assess fit and interest. A key factor in gaining support has been presenting diversion as a tool to strengthen school climate and student outcomes rather than focusing on problems within the schools.

The Montgomery County Team originally asked three school districts to implement a school-based YAP diversion program to reduce suspensions, expulsions, and referrals to law enforcement, especially for Black youth. The team current has five school districts implementing the School YAP program in their high schools, and one district added their three middle schools in January 2025. In the 2023-2024 school year, 97 youth were referred to the School YAP program across the county; 56 youth completed the program, and 21 remained in progress/pending at the end of the school year. In addition, in that school year, only one youth was arrested for a school-based offense, and all other youth were referred to YAP, case management, EBPs, or supportive services.