The Los Angeles County Probation Department has launched a new college and career pathway program aimed at providing second chances for justice-involved youth.
The program provides youth ages 16 to 18 with the opportunity to explore educational and career options in lieu of a criminal career.
“The Los Angeles County Probation Department is proud to work with our county colleagues to create educational pathways for our youth,” said Chief Probation Officer Vieira Rosa. “This program gives them access to higher education, opens the door to more opportunities and career paths, and lays the foundation for a successful and productive future.”
“CCPP provides a transformative option for young people accused of crimes. Rather than dealing with a criminal record, these young people can pursue educational and career goals and build a brighter future. It gives us the opportunity to equip ourselves with the tools we need,” said District Attorney George Gascón. “My office is dedicated to addressing the root causes of crime and breaking the cycles that often trap young people in the justice system.”
“For many justice-involved youth, traditional education has not worked. CCPP aims to change the course of young people’s lives by providing an alternative,” said Los Angeles County Public Defender Ricardo.・D. Garcia said. “This is an opportunity to gain education and career skills and break the vicious cycle that often leads deep into the system. When other educational institutions fall short, we are committed to giving our youth opportunities and helping them become brighter. I hope to build a future.”
“This program is a testament to Los Angeles’ commitment to serving all members of our community, regardless of the challenges they face,” said Sarah Hernandez, second vice president of the Los Angeles Community College Board of Trustees. -Reflects the efforts of community college districts.” “By offering academic programs across all nine colleges, we are building a support system that goes beyond the classroom and providing young people with the opportunity to become educated, employed, and empowered members of society. Masu.”
College preparation programs allow young people to pursue a college certificate or degree in lieu of a criminal record. The Los Angeles County Probation Department, in conjunction with the District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, and Superior Court, evaluates each case and determines eligibility based on factors such as the nature of the crime, gang affiliation, and potential benefit of assistance. judge. We provide services and a new educational environment. Once selected, participants are placed in one of nine community college programs, where they must attend and complete coursework. The charges against them will be stayed while they actively participate, and upon successful completion they may be eligible for a dismissal of the case.
In addition to education, participants receive career counseling, access to support services, financial aid, tutoring, and the opportunity to join student clubs.
“The College and Career Pathway Program provides an important alternative to detention by providing young people with a pathway to higher education,” said Jesús Corral, Probation Service Senior Director of Training and Education. Ta. “This collaborative effort creates life-changing opportunities, promotes education, and helps reduce recidivism by addressing the root causes of behavior through learning and skill-building.”
This program is a collaboration between the Probation Department, Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Superior Court, and Los Angeles Mission College.
