College and Career Ready (or Not): A Systematic Review of Programs in Alternative Settings

Abstract

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) are at an increased risk for poor outcomes (e.g., dropout, unemployment, mental health problems). These risks are heightened for students placed in juvenile justice and/or alternative placement settings. Increasing college and career readiness (CCR) opportunities may potentially lead to increases in school engagement, better postsecondary outcomes, and lower school dropout. Previous systematic reviews have examined CCR programs solely in school settings. The current review extended previous research by examining CCR programs for students placed in juvenile justice settings, detention centers, and/or alternative placement settings serving students with emotional and behavioral problems. A total of seven articles were identified after a rigorous systematic search and screening process. A majority of the studies employed didactic instruction as part of a multicomponent intervention, and evaluated multiple outcomes with mixed effectiveness. With respect to quality indicators, many of the studies did not meet standards of rigor for empirical research. Future research, practice, and policy implications are addressed as there is a need to increase the evidence base of CCR programs for youth in juvenile justice and alternative placement settings.