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Abstract
In this study, the authors present the findings of an evaluation of North Carolina's juvenile structured day programs (JSDP), a type of alternative learning program for suspended or expelled court-involved juveniles. A 36-item questionnaire was mailed to each of North Carolina's 41 juvenile structured day programs. The authors surveyed issues surrounding the process of operating these programs and the perceived impact that these programs have had on the participants' academic performance and subsequent delinquent behavior. They also conducted follow-up site visits to several programs to generate additional and richer qualitative information. Although respondents reported relatively smooth and successful operations, results indicated that staffing, transportation, and financing were 3 significant concerns that could impede program operation. Statistical analyses suggested that these programs are making a difference as approximately 1 in 4 JSDP attendees made improvements in school attendance and had no further contact with the juvenile court system. The authors offer policy recommendations to alleviate, or at least minimize, the major programmatic obstacles that were encountered by juvenile structured day program staff and educators.