Studies have shown that youth in the juvenile justice system who have access to education, job-readiness training and employment opportunities have a significantly higher chance of succeeding in the community and avoiding getting into further trouble with the law.

While some youth may have more of a focus on attaining educational goals, other youth may be focused on receiving job training and entering the workforce. DJS Case Managers tailor aftercare plans to focus on the needs, skills and goals for each youth returning to the community.

Education

As part of a youth’s aftercare plan, DJS Case Mangers create "transition plans" to help a youth returning to the community transition back to their local community school. A transition plan is developed with the help of local school officials and teachers and focuses on ways to bring a youth back into the educational environment with as little disruption as possible. Once a youth returns to the community and is re-enrolled in his or her local school, DJS Case Managers track the youth's attendance and progress at the school through the Spotlight on Schools Program.

Job-Readiness

More than just learning the skills of a specific trade, DJS youth re-entering the community often must learn basic job skills. These skills include workplace etiquette, proper attire and behavior, and developing positive workplace habits. DJS Case Managers are able to incorporate job-readiness training into aftercare plans in order to give DJS youth the best chance to not only find a job but keep it.

Employment

DJS Case Managers often incorporate vocational training; or access to employment opportunities in aftercare planning for DJS youth. There are many programs throughout Maryland that offer training and pre-apprenticeships for various disciplines such as plumbing, electrical, carpentry, food handling and service, construction and basic computer skills. In addition to providing training, these youth job-oriented programs will help youth find jobs in their respective discipline.