The City of Surprise is on the lookout for high school students with a passion for communal harmony and justice to join the Surprise Youth Justice Project (SYJP). In partnership with Maricopa County and Surprise City Court, SYJP members get a chance to truly change the narrative of teen justice through participation in Teen Court, a diversion program that offers a restorative approach to juvenile offenses. The program uniquely positions teens to judge their peers, which often leads to a more empathetic and personalized form of justice.
The initiative underscores a rising trend in how communities address juvenile delinquency — emphasizing restoration over retribution. Program orientation is slated for August 26 at the Surprise City Court, with the program extending through April 2025, giving students ample time to get involved and make a difference.
To be eligible, applicants must be current high school students who either reside in Surprise or are enrolled in a Dysart or other high school within the city. A commitment to attend monthly meetings, which are set up as Teen Court sessions, is also necessary. These sessions traditionally occur on the fourth Monday of every month from 3 to 5 p.m., with exceptions made for City holidays.
Applications can be submitted via email to Kara Poling at [email protected]. Students need to provide basic personal information. Additionally, a parent or guardian's approval via completion of the Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department Teen Court Program application is a must. Those interested are encouraged to register early as spaces in the program are limited. More details about this innovative endeavor can be found on the City of Surprise official website. Queries can be directed to Ms. Poling at 623.222.1647 or her aforementioned email address.
