NCJ Number
210755
Date Published
2005
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article describes the development and implementation of the Arkansas Juvenile Education Initiative (JEdI) to meet the educational needs of incarcerated youth.
Abstract
Public education is increasingly under scrutiny, including the educational programs that serve incarcerated youth. As research on education and learning has progressed, so too have educational programs and services for youth. Four years ago, a Web-based educational program called SkillsTutor, which targets math and reading skills, began a trial run at one of the juvenile detention centers in Arkansas. Following the trial, 15 other juvenile detention sites adopted the program and collected demographic and educational information pertaining to the program. The program partnered with surrounding schools so that upon release, youth could continue the program within their schools, libraries, or homes. Following an evaluation of the program, the State expanded availability of the JEdI concept to school districts at risk for not making adequate yearly progress; to date, over 60 schools have been added to the JEdI program. Schools are able to tailor the program to suit needs; program uses can include homebound, in-school suspension, computer labs, and Saturday schools, for example. Expansion to additional public schools and residential treatment facilities throughout the State is planned. An assessment of the program is planned using Arkansas Benchmark Exams, end of course exams, and the Test of Adult Basic Skills (TABS). Table, references