NCJ Number
195537
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 53 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2002 Pages: 46-50
Date Published
June 2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article examines special education programs in juvenile corrections for youth with disabilities.
Abstract
This article briefly discusses the overrepresentation of youth with disabilities in juvenile corrections, reviews the role of education and literacy in facilitating positive adult outcomes, and suggests differential goals for education programs in short-term versus long-term institutions. The requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provide a framework for discussion of special education service delivery. While illiteracy and poor academic performance are not direct causes of delinquency, there is a strong link between marginal literacy skills and the likelihood of involvement in the juvenile justice system. Unfortunately, lack of attention to the educational rights of delinquent youth is part of a trend in corrections to provide youth with minimal services. The article concludes that communities and courts serious about keeping delinquent youth from re-offending and out of adult corrections, will ensure that the education programs in juvenile corrections meet statutory requirements and enable youth to develop new skills. References, Internet resources