Reversing the School-to-Prison Pipeline: The Changing Role and Use of Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Programs in Texas.

• In Event: Examining the School-to-Prison-Pipeline

Abstract

Research from Texas shows that one-third of public school students has experienced out-of-school suspensions and that youth subject to school suspensions or expulsions for breaking school rules are three times more likely to be involved with the juvenile justice system than comparable youth without suspensions. Based on state-wide education and juvenile justice data, this study evaluates the role of Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Programs (JJAEPs) in Texas. Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Programs in Texas were established in 1996 to provide education for children expelled from school for serious delinquent conduct (mandatory expulsions) or expelled for conduct in violation of local student code of conduct policies (discretionary expulsions). This paper analyzes the outcomes of JJAEP placed youth relating to school disciplinary responses after JJAEP participation, educational performance, and re-contact with the juvenile justice system following JJAEP placement. Additionally, the paper examines changes in JJAEP referrals over time and how these changes relate to funding and more general policy and practice shifts to address youth behaviors in schools.

Author

• Pernilla Johansson, Texas Juvenile Justice Department