TABS

The Truancy Abatement and Burglary Suppression Program (TABS) began in Milwaukee on November 29, 1993. The mission of TABS is to intervene with students who are truant, deterring them from involvement in the criminal justice system. This is accomplished by promoting school attendance through a collaborative team approach, involving students, parents, schools, law enforcement and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee.

This mission is carried out by an enthusiastic staff of 10. The Milwaukee Police Department provides four officers who work in teams of two. They comb the streets during the day, identifying truants and conveying them to one of two centers. The Milwaukee Public Schools provide two school liaisons who complete an initial intake with the student and access current attendance information. They also notify parents of the students contact with TABS and instruct them to come to the centers to pick up the youth. TABS also has a School Social Worker who provides follow up activities with habitual truants and families.