Document Type
Article
Abstract
The “school-to-prison pipeline” (SPP) refers to the policies, practices, and attitudes that push the United States’ most vulnerable schoolchildren out of the classroom and into the criminal justice system. This correlation shows a disturbing trend of incarceration CLASSROOM TO CELL: CALL FOR REFORM AKERS 3 instead of education (ACLU, 2008). The link between school and incarceration is present in most physical and social institutions, creating a widespread and intersectional injustice. To create more targeted and holistic reform, this paper will concentrate on the education institution and crucial social structures like socioeconomic status (SES), family stability, and community support. Additionally, reviewing legislation and governmental campaigns throughout the nation’s history can help to better explain why Black and Brown students are disproportionately impacted by the SPP. Raising awareness and educating the public about harmful actions and ideologies requires culturally sensitive research. High incarceration and reincarceration rates in the US reflect a complex cycle of recidivism and the extensive barriers to reentering society; thus, the need for early onset prevention to stop the cycle from beginning. The pervasive and harmful nature of the school-to-prison pipeline demands tangible policy solutions that address historical roots, systemic biases, and the intricate web of social and economic factors continuing the perpetuation of inequality and injustice. Varying definitions of misconduct, disciplinary procedures, and reporting practices makes collecting data even more difficult. However, creating national standards that assess and correct schools’ curricula, resource allocation, and procedural practices is one way to reduce the likelihood of a child’s entrance into the SPP. Lastly, teaching culturally competent circular, by culturally representative teachers is necessary to disentangle the SPP from the educational institution
Publication Date
Spring 5-1-2024
Recommended Citation
Akers, Draylen, "From Classroom to Cell: A Call to Action for Educational Reform" (2024). University Honors College. 19.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/honorsp/19