The courtroom is an opportunity for dialogue, affirmation, recognition, and sanctions when required. By using the physical environment to the court’s advantage, the participant’s remain engaged and motivated. The court became a friendlier place; where strangers became friends and sometimes mentors, coffee and pastries were served, rehab sessions and counseling, honor roll meetings and award ceremonies, and other pro-social activities occurred. Participants were also expected to engage in the larger community via volunteerism and other activities (i.e. organizing family picnics).
The participant is seated a a small table no more than 10 feet from the judge and fellow participants seated in the jury box area. The judge engages as many persons as possible in a community discussion, affirming the participant’s progress and presents a reward at the conclusion of the interaction.