End The School To Prison Pipeline
Schools are a place for learning, not policing, punishment and fear. NCYL advocates for school environments that are safe for all students.
Across the nation, schools implement harsh punishments that push students out of school and into the juvenile justice system, creating what is known as the school-to-prison pipeline. NCYL works to stop this destructive cycle through impact litigation, policy advocacy, research partnerships, community power-building and direct service. We aim to create more positive school environments that address students’ academic, social and emotional needs.
Safe schools for everyone
The long-standing and growing role of law enforcement on campuses - often in the name of student safety - is a dangerous driver of the school-to-prison pipeline. There is no evidence that police on campuses make students safer. Data show, however, that their presence has only meant increases in rates of arrest, restraint and referrals to juvenile courts, especially among Black, Brown and Native students and students with disabilities. NCYL works at the community, state and federal level to stop the use of police in schools.
Treat children like children
Disrupting class, using profanity, misbehaving on a school bus, student fights, and skipping school once meant a trip to the principal’s office. Now these very same behaviors lead to suspension, expulsion, ticketing and even arrest.
NCYL works to replace the use of harmful punishments that accelerate into the school-to-prison pipeline with more supportive, community based supports that actually help youth.
