Problem:
Include references for "Adolescents involved in or at high risk of entering the juvenile justice system, particularly those residing in urban, low-income communities, are facing significant challenges in accessing quality education and supportive social services (OJJDP, 2022). These challenges are multifaceted and include systemic issues such as under-resourced schools, lack of access to mental health services, and the school-to-prison pipeline. Under-resourced schools in these communities often lack the necessary funding to provide quality education, leading to lower academic achievement and higher dropout rates. This lack of education can limit future opportunities and increase the likelihood of involvement with the juvenile justice system. Additionally, these adolescents often lack access to necessary mental health services. Many of these adolescents have experienced trauma, which can impact their ability to succeed in school and increase their risk of involvement with the juvenile justice system. Without access to supportive social services, these adolescents are left to navigate these challenges on their own. Furthermore, the school-to-prison pipeline disproportionately affects these adolescents. Policies such as zero-tolerance and increased police presence in schools can lead to higher rates of suspension, expulsion, and arrest for minor infractions, pushing these adolescents into the juvenile justice system. These challenges create a cycle of disadvantage that is difficult to break, leading to higher rates of involvement with the juvenile justice system and limiting future opportunities for these adolescents. Therefore, it is crucial to address these systemic issues and provide these adolescents with the support they need to succeed.