School-to-Prison Pipeline in Florida: A Critical Study

• In Event: Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual iPresentation Only: SIG-Critical Educators for Social Justice Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

This study aims to incorporate conceptual and empirical knowledge about the School-to-Prison- Pipeline and foster social change by implementing relevant and meaningful pathways to eliminate it in schools in Florida. The research design provides two years of qualitative inquiry at a mid-sized university in Florida, involving the participation of 54 undergraduate students. Results indicate that lack of educational opportunities, teacher biases, and structural racism push Black students down the prison pipeline. Therefore, it is imperative to help teacher candidates develop a social justice mindset and educate them about biases and structural inequalities and their effects on Black students’ educational participation.

Authors

• Dilek Kayaalp, University of North Florida

• Madalina F. Tanase, University of North Florida