Some time ago, I read a startling article, which I have used as a "spring board" for informing the IYLP. This article offers some concerning data and information about the dismal quality of the education provided to incarcerated youth in the state of Michigan. In addition, it highlights how this problem makes it significantly more difficult for many youth to reestablish themselves in "normal" schools, which presents issues that can result in recidivism.
Such data and effects are concerning for several reasons, not the least of these being that the recent bipartisan push for criminal justice reform solidified in the signing of the FIRST STEP Act into law, has in many ways not gone far enough for children who are incarcerated. It says next to nothing about educational provisions that can make a huge difference in the futures of these youth.
The progress is not unimpressive, but there is still far to go.
