Programs

FAST (Family Assistance with Suspension and Termination)

TACOLCY developed the FAST program to assist families with middle and high school children who have been suspended or are in danger of expulsion. Instead of being suspended in school or at home, students come to TACOLCY where they are supervised and taught to reverse bad behavior, receive academic assistance with missed classes, and encouraged to complete their homework assignments. During this safe and structured environment, 160 students annually, ranging from 8-18 years-old, address issues responsible for their disruptive behavior and practice better coping strategies. They include: conflict resolution, peer pressure, decision making, anger management, crime prevention, personal goal setting, drug awareness, breaking substance abuse and focusing on health and well being. The program has access to the academic, attendance and behavior records of those it assists, so it can tailor the curriculum for each student’s needs. There is a parental involvement component to alert parents to the importance of their role in watching, guiding and advocating for their children to keep them safe and on track. Fewer than 15% of youth who have gone through this program are re-suspended. For more information, contact Horace Roberts at 305-751-1295 ext. 111 or email hroberts@tacolcy.org.