Yesterday, the L.A. County Board of Supervisors decided to shake things up for the local correctional education system, agreeing to implement the Probation Oversight Commission’s (POC) recommendations on improving post-secondary education for youth detained within the county's probation facilities. This move is a signal that access to higher education could become a game-changer for these young individuals. The decision focuses on ensuring those who've graduated from high school have opportunities for further learning and career development.
"Education is not an add-on, it’s the backbone of a rehabilitative environment," Eduardo Mundo, POC Chair, told the news source. The board's action doesn't only address the aspirational goals. It also pays heed to the logistics involved in aligning funding, staffing, and governance structures to support the quality of higher education services. Los Angeles County Supervisor, Holly J. Mitchell, was quoted in the media release expressing gratitude towards the POC for its advocacy and outlined the intentions behind this motion.
The importance of this development is underscored by the current landscape where, following the closure of the state's Division of Juvenile Justice in 2021, a growing number of older youth in L.A. County need post-secondary educational services. Research suggests that educational offerings can contribute to reducing recidivism and improving employment rates post-release, making it an investment in both the individuals' futures and community safety.
As part of the initiative, L.A. County's shift could better leverage state and local resources, including significant funds through the Rising Scholars Network meant for community colleges. A statement by Brooke Harris, another POC Commissioner, emphasized the potential positive outcomes by saying, “LACOE has the educators, systems, and partnerships to deliver year-round, differentiated instruction, from college enrollment to career training.” This change seeks to improve transitions and access to education for detained youth, preparing them for life after their time in the justice system.
The upcoming implementation will be closely watched. The Probation Oversight Commission is set to monitor the rollout, ensuring the education delivered aligns with college and career standards and supports successful rehabilitation and reentry for incarcerated youth. More detailed plans on the transition, featuring target timelines, staffing plans, and metrics for public reporting, are anticipated from the County departments involved. They will be developed in collaboration with the L.A. County Office of Education and the Probation Department. With this measure, L.A. County seems to be reinforcing its commitment to transforming the juvenile justice system into a stepping-stone toward a future of opportunities.
