Spaces of Healing and Empowerment

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors begin by describing the experiences of one family with the school-to-prison pipeline, seeking to elucidate its causes and illustrate its damaging effects on real people. Next, they analyze the success of two dropout recovery programs that are dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline. They identify and describe five key qualities that explain the success of these programs, including: a casual, family-like atmosphere with a close-knit community; creative responses to chronic absenteeism; extreme patience and flexibility in the classroom; innovative programs that hook student interest and provide a means for students to heal from past trauma; and wrap-around services, including heavy advising, for all students. Finally, the authors share their theory of pedagogical and institutional plasticity, an overarching philosophy and practice that provides a framework for creating safe, trauma free schools that serve all youth with spaces of healing and empowerment.