Incarcerated Youth Education (18 up to 21)
Onondaga County Justice Center Incarcerated Youth and Adult Education Programs
The Syracuse City School District's educational initiatives for young adults and adults are a commitment to rehabilitation and community reintegration. By providing accessible educational opportunities and tailored support, the district empowers individuals to break the cycle of recidivism and forge a path toward fulfilling, successful lives. SCSD's commitment to providing educational opportunities for all, regardless of their past, is a testament to the power of education to transform lives and build stronger communities.
A Foundation for Growth: Parent and Student Support
This webpage is designed to be a resource for parents and supports of students in our alternative education programs. We understand that navigating an alternative school system and accessing community support can be challenging, especially when your child is involved in the justice system. This website is designed to give you specific information on how to support your child with their education, obtain community supports, and advocating.
(Virtual High School, High School Equivalency, ESL, and Preemployment)
Incarcerated youth face unique challenges, but educational initiatives like Virtual High School, High School Equivalency, ESL, and Pre-employment programs offer them vital opportunities for growth and transformation. Student supports, educational programs, and other opportunities are listed below.
All students are provided with:
1. A Transitional Case Manager who supports the student with needs between the high school and coursework.
1. A Transitional Case Manager who supports the student with needs between the high school and coursework.
2. A NYSED Certified Special Education Teacher who updates and implements Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and is an advocate.
3. One-on-one teacher support with a NYSED certified teacher and assistance from high school educators attached to high schools.
4. Case management support for reentering the community-based resources and to high school.
5. Educational support even if they are not allowed to be in a traditional educational classroom setting. We go to pods, and not just the classrooms.
4. Case management support for reentering the community-based resources and to high school.
5. Educational support even if they are not allowed to be in a traditional educational classroom setting. We go to pods, and not just the classrooms.
SCSD Virtual High School (Distance Education and Individualized Tutoring)
SCSD Virtual High School (VHS) delivers flexible, distance education courses, allowing incarcerated youth to continue to earn their high school diploma despite confinement. Each student has daily tutoring support to help them with all subject material. The goal of this program is to assist students from any district to continue with class work and exams needed to complete required coursework. Reasonable Special Education IEP and 504 accommodations are provided.
High School Equivalency (HSE)- Also Known as the GED
The HSE program leads students to take the GED (General Education Development) as an alternative path to high school completion. For incarcerated youth, HSE programs can accelerate their education, building the foundation needed for post-release success. The program is for students who are credit deficient and do not wish to obtain a traditional high school diploma. These students work in-class or at the pod on reading, writing, social studies, science and mathematics GED curriculum. Teachers are trained to provide instruction based on gaps in literacy, test taking, and GED content. Please encourage your child to continue with their high school diploma
HSE Remediation
New York State Education Department (NYSED) expects that all students who are under a high school level (9th grade) in reading and math be given remediation support prior to being considered an HSE student. The teachers will first work with students on reading and math skills to show foundational education success. School work includes PreGED subject material that balance literacy, content and test taking skills. For students who need a little more support, SCSD also offers fundamental skills support in reading, writing, and math.
Students who have been out of school for awhile or haven't felt successful in school are encouraged to increase one to two academic and literacy skills at a time, so they see success. Please give them positive support to continue. Sometimes the amount of skills students need is a lot, but they can get there with support and determination.
Students who have been out of school for awhile or haven't felt successful in school are encouraged to increase one to two academic and literacy skills at a time, so they see success. Please give them positive support to continue. Sometimes the amount of skills students need is a lot, but they can get there with support and determination.
Clases de Inglés como Segundo Idioma/ English as a Second Language
¡Mejora tu inglés con nuestras clases de inglés como segundo idioma! Ofrecemos un enfoque integral que te ayudará a desarrollar tus habilidades en comunicación oral, lectura, escritura y gramática. Aprenderás inglés a través de temas relevantes a la vida real, lo que te permitirá aplicar tus conocimientos en situaciones cotidianas. ¡Inscríbete hoy y comienza tu camino hacia la fluidez en inglés!
Enhance your English skills with our English as a Second Language classes! We offer a comprehensive approach that will help you develop your oral communication, reading, writing, and grammar skills. You'll learn English through themes relevant to real-world needs, enabling you to apply your knowledge in everyday situations. Enroll today and begin your journey to English fluency!
Enhance your English skills with our English as a Second Language classes! We offer a comprehensive approach that will help you develop your oral communication, reading, writing, and grammar skills. You'll learn English through themes relevant to real-world needs, enabling you to apply your knowledge in everyday situations. Enroll today and begin your journey to English fluency!
100 Hour Reentry and Preemployment Support
Students have additional opportunities to growth through a 100 Hour Reentry Program and through a preemployment program. Each is designed to prevent recidivism, be prepared for work, or grow personally. We attempt to have students complete both programs depending on their length of stay.
100-Hour Reentry Prerelease Programming
These programs are designed to be a crucial part of preparing individuals for a successful return to society. They equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills necessary for a smooth transition and reintegration into the community. The curriculum focuses on fostering positive change, enhancing critical thinking skills, promoting a positive mindset and ethical decision-making, and encouraging a healthy respect for rules and regulations. All young adults will be part of this program dependent on their time at the OCJC. Students will recieve certificates with each program module they finish.
Preemployment Programming
Pre-employment programs focus on building crucial soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Additionally, they provide opportunities for career exploration, helping individuals discover their interests and potential career paths. In addition, students will have a resume and cover letter to bring with them or on file with the school. By enhancing employability and fostering self-sufficiency, these programs empower incarcerated youth to secure gainful employment upon release and build a fulfilling life in the community. Students will receive a certificate when they meet all requirements of the program.
Community Supports for the Family
As an educational institution, we do not endorse any community or county-based programs directly but have had families and young adults have positive experiences with organizations below. These programs are just a start to the many, many great organizations in Syracuse and Onondaga County. We always recommend you diall 211 to discuss further resources. Program eligibility requirements vary, so it's essential to contact the organizations directly to determine if you or your child qualify for their services.
For Parents:
- Parent Empowerment Program (PEP): Offered by Catholic Charities, PEP provides classes and support groups for parents of children of all ages, including those involved in the justice system. They can help you develop parenting skills, navigate the legal system, and connect with resources. (315) 362-7547
- Family Support Services: Provided by the Onondaga County Department of Children and Family Services, these services offer counseling, support groups, and referrals to other resources for families facing challenges, including those with incarcerated children. (315) 463-1100
- The Salvation Army: They offer various programs, including family counseling, support groups, and assistance with basic needs, which can be helpful for families impacted by incarceration. (315) 475-1688
For Incarcerated Youth and Young Adults:
- Center for Community Alternatives (CCA): CCA's Reintegration Services offer programs for justice-involved individuals aged 18-24, including those with an incarceration history. They provide support with substance use, cognitive behavioral training, and transitional planning, both during incarceration and after release. (315) 475-1544
- Liberty Resources: They offer various programs for at-risk youth, including those involved in the justice system. Their services include Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) for delinquent youth and Supportive Case Management (SCM) for children with emotional needs. (315) 425-1004
- Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Programs: While incarcerated at the Onondaga County Correctional Facility, youth can access educational programs, vocational training, and religious services. These programs aim to support rehabilitation and successful re-entry into the community.
General Support:
- 2-1-1 CNY (CONTACT): This is a valuable resource for finding information and referrals to various services in Onondaga County, including those related to incarceration, family support, and re-entry. Dial 2-1-1 or visit their website.
- McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center: While focused on child abuse, they also offer resources and support for families navigating the legal system, which can be relevant for parents of incarcerated children. (315) 701-2985
Legal Advocacy and Support:
- Legal Services of Central New York (LSCNY): They can represent students in juvenile delinquency proceedings, advocate for their rights, and work towards alternatives to detention that keep them connected to education. (315) 475-3191 or www.lscny.org
- Hiscock Legal Aid Society: They have a dedicated youth advocacy program that helps with is facing criminal charges, Hiscock can provide representation or refer them to appropriate resources. (315) 471-1511 or www.hlalaw.org
- Center for Community Alternatives (CCA): CCA specifically helps Syracuse City School District students with disciplinary hearings and advocates for alternatives to suspension and expulsion. This is vital for keeping kids in school. For students transitioning back into the community after incarceration, CCA offers support with education, employment, and life skills. (315) 475-1544 or www.communityalternatives.org.
Advocating for the Incarcerated Young Adult
Here are some steps a parent can take to advocate for their incarcerated child:
- Stay informed: Learn about your child's rights, the prison or detention center's rules and regulations, and any relevant laws or policies. This knowledge will help you navigate the system and advocate effectively.
- Maintain regular contact: Visit your child, write letters, and make phone calls as often as possible. This shows your child you care and allows you to stay updated on their situation.
- Seek legal assistance: If necessary, consult with an attorney who specializes in criminal justice or prisoners' rights. They can provide legal advice, represent your child in court, or help file grievances.
- Connect with support organizations: There are organizations that assist families of incarcerated individuals. They can provide resources, support groups, and guidance on navigating the system.
- Advocate for rehabilitation: Encourage your child to participate in educational programs, vocational training, and counseling services. These can help prepare them for reintegration into society upon release.
- Stay involved in the legal process: Attend court hearings, communicate with your child's attorney, and stay informed about any developments in their case.
- Push the young adult to improve: There are opportunities to show legal authorities that the young adult is working towards improving their situation through education, personal development, and even obtaining a job while incarcerated.
- Maintain hope and positivity: Your child needs your support and encouragement during this challenging time. Remind them of your love and belief in their ability to overcome this situation.
Announcements
Community Transitional Supports Brochure
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