The broadcasting of Beyond Scared Straight that raised the visibility of the program has led to both Maryland and California to suspend their programs pending further internal review. Their action apparently follows some kind of notice from OJJDP that the programs featured in the A&E series may be in violation of JJDPA core requirements and could result in loss of federal juvenile justice funding. In the category of “…things that make you go hmmmm?” one has to wonder why it’s only now, after airing on national television, that these questions arise; but, I suppose we’ll see what happens as they review the criteria and procedures used in the programs. Maybe they’ve found a way to take kids into prisons that doesn’t violate JJDPA? Or not!
Language Access in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths. But when children and their families face language access barriers, they are often excluded from critical information and services, which can hinder their development and well-being.
