5 Ways Juvenile Probation Administrators Can Use Data

• NCJ Number: 251592
• Author(s): T. Johnson; T. Deal
• Date Published: March 2018
• Length: 2 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2015-JF-FX-K003
• Agencies: OJJDP-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance); Report (Grant Sponsored); Instructional Material; Factsheet

Annotation

This fact sheet explains to juvenile probation administrators five benefits of collecting, analyzing, and reporting data on key performance measures, which will assist their agencies in being accountable to the youth, their families, the community, and their partners in the juvenile justice system.

Abstract

First, collecting output and outcome information on programming delivered by probation staff and community programs helps probation administrators monitor whether the programming results in positive youth outcomes. Second, the collection and analysis of data on a youth's individual needs and risk of reoffending assists probation agencies in determining whether a youth is provided the array of services needed to achieve the youth's positive development and prevent reoffending. Third, collecting and analyzing data on the agency's responses to technical probation violations and other conduct issues ensures that similar situations are handled consistently for all probationers without bias related to race/ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or social class. Fourth, data-sharing with juvenile justice agencies and community-based service providers assists in case planning and assessing the system's performance in the various areas affecting the management of each probationer. Fifth, an annual report that describes the vision of the juvenile probation agency and reports statistics related to fulfillment of its vision indicates to staff, stakeholders, and community that justice-involved youth are being treated appropriately and effectively.