The first time selected students at Lewis and Clark Middle School recite an oath to attend school every day, be on time and turn in all their homework, they are hesitant, maybe even self-doubting.
But by the end of the 12 weeks in Blazer Court, most of these students will recite the oath, not only from memory, but also with a confidence that they follow through.
At the core of this truancy court program are the volunteer efforts of Supreme Court Judge Mary Russell, who initiated the first program of its type for middle school students in Mid-Missouri six years ago.