Disparities

Disparities other than money? Hmmm. Stress levels created by noxious family relationships, alcohol/drug abuse and peer pressure contribute greatly to school failure, dropout rates and unemployment. Historically, mental health, criminal justice and the education system interact with this population in an inconsistent manner. A student is sent to alternative school for punishment or holding until your old enough to drop out or commit some offense that will get him/her expelled. Then of course, the criminal justice system is very ready to assume responsibility for them. While incarcerated they may receive treatment for substance abuse if that is an issue but not for much else.

How to address it, since we have already established alternative settings why not make them more effective by implementing a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates stress management skills, training in goal development and problem solving, individual group and family counseling and training in employability, social and life skills. Comprehensive treatment plans would actually be developed for each student. This of course would be in addition to academic remediation especially academic skills necessary for life functions. I believe that Liz has this kind of heart toward her students and she may be doing some of things suggested. (Gamble & Satcher, 2007)