She was Homeless; Now, College Awaits Her
Julie Drizin said: Rika Shabazz has attended 10 schools over 12 years. Thanks to help from a nonprofit that targets academically talented low-income kids, Shabazz is heading to Williams College on a full scholarship.
Teen Court, Excellent!
Julie Drizin said: Recidivism rates are low for first time juvenile offenders who face a jury of their peers in Santa Barbara County Teen Court.
Rape and Other Sexual Violence Prevalent in Juvenile Justice System
Julie Drizin said: The U.S. Justice Department reports that 20 percent of teens in juvenile facilities are sexually assaulted, usually by adults on staff.
Calif. Bill Would Send Sexually Exploited Children to Foster System
Julie Drizin said: A proposed law in California would place youth arrested for prostitution in foster care with "wraparound services," instead of juvenile detention.
Adoption Journeys Gives Families Support, Tools for Success
Mina Dixon said: A state-funded program offered through a nonprofit agency offers support to adoptive families at no cost. Before adoption, families can turn to legal, counseling, or therapy resources if they need help. But once an adoption is final, many of these services fall away.
We’re Not Doing Enough to Engage Parents, Even Though it Improves Achievement (Opinion)
Julie Drizin said: Research shows that students whose parents are involved in their schools and education score higher on reading and math.
Foster Families Take Center Stage
Julie Drizin said: A new ABC Family drama features an interracial lesbian couple with biological, adopted and foster children. Some child advocates and foster kids credit the show for being realistic.
Bad Food, a Bible, and a Blanket: 24 Hours in Juvenile Solitary Confinement
Julie Drizin said: To draw attention to detention and isolation of juveniles, photojournalist Richard Ross created a time release video documenting his 24 hours of voluntary incarceration.
What Are Fathers For?
Julie Drizin said: As Fathers' Day approaches, a diversity of experts weigh in on the ever-changing roles of dads.
Philly Students Learn Life Skills Through Ballroom Dance Competition
Julie Drizin said: Can you dance better than a fifth grader? Probably not, unless you had ten weeks of strictly ballroom lessons, like these youth from Philadelphia.
