NCJ Number
141443
Journal
Large Jails Network Bulletin Volume: 1 Issue: 4 Dated: (March 1990) Pages: 2-3
Date Published
1990
Length
2 pages
Annotation
The goal of New York State laws enacted in 1986 requiring school districts to provide educational services for incarcerated youth is to help young inmates obtain skills and credentials that will help them function more effectively during incarceration and after release.
Abstract
The educational program serves inmates under 21 years of age who do not have a high school diploma, have been incarcerated for at least 10 days, and are expected to remain in jail for another 10 days or longer. The correctional facility must provide a staff liaison, classroom space, teacher orientation, and classroom supervision. Facility staff must also advise eligible inmates that the program is available and explain procedures for participation and continuination of studies after release. Educational services must be available 3 hours daily when district schools are normally in session. Participating inmates are screened to determine their abilities in reading, math, and language and then placed in an appropriate group. Most instruction is provided in small groups of eight or fewer students. Instruction focuses on reading, math, and written and oral communication. The State Department of Education funds the program, and school districts provide teachers. The growing statewide network of participating teachers demonstrates their commitment to the program's success. Challenges to program implementation are noted, and the experience of the Monroe County Jail in Rochester in implementing the program is reported.