Life is tough in America's cities, where too many young people—hailing from troubled or broken homes—don't consider school a priority, preferring instead to "run the streets," before eventually joining the "school to prison pipeline," where they learn the wrong lessons in lockup. This episode from the PBS-aired Tavis Smiley Reports series looks at the "high risk game" of criminalizing children who are caught in the "zero tolerance net." Interviewing probation officers, justices, corrections staff, and the offenders themselves, Smiley draws a picture of kids suffering from rage, addiction issues, and neglect: fighting and dropping out of school almost seems like a natural response. A few adults choose to step up to "support rather than punish." For example, a Missouri judge handling juvenile justice cases, tired of seeing the same faces in his courtroom, has started the Innovative Concepts Academy, seeking to establish hope, discipline, and goals for young offenders. Smiley meets teens in corrections facilities trying to turn their lives around, despite repeat visits to lockup. He also talks to youth advocates and truancy boards, and visits alternative schools. Smiley isn't naïve, but he is passionate, arguing that a "total reset is needed," while also noting the high human and financial cost of doing nothing. A timely, provocative documentary that should spark needed debate, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)
Education Under Arrest
(2013) 60 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.95 w/PPR). PBS Video. SDH captioned. ISBN: 978-1-60883-882-0. Volume 28, Issue 5
Education Under Arrest
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