WSU report gives roadmap to improve juvenile reentry

A new report from Washington State University outlines strategies to improve the future planning of young adults transitioning from Washington's juvenile rehabilitation facilities.

The multi-year evaluation is being conducted by WSU RISE (Research in Special Education), led by College of Education faculty members Marcus Poppen, Anya Sheftel, and Michael Dunn, along with research associate Yu "Abby" Xue.

Through focus groups and interviews with more than 65 participants, Poppen said the researchers identified critical areas for improvement, such as expanding family engagement, implementing culturally responsive care, and refining individualized reentry planning.

"Our goal was to understand reentry from all perspectives - youth, families, and community partners - and offer actionable recommendations to create better outcomes," Poppen said. "This evaluation underscores that while key elements are in place, there is room to enhance support for young people returning to their communities."

Commissioned by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Juvenile Rehabilitation, the WSU RISE findings stress the importance of aligning current practices with established best practices; foster a smoother transition process and increase success rates for young adults up to 25 leaving residential care; and coordinated, comprehensive services, that extend beyond release.

DCYF Juvenile Rehabilitation Assistant Secretary Felice Upton said the value of these insights creates a roadmap for meaningful change.

"We now have clearer direction to address the barriers youth face when reentering their communities, ultimately promoting more positive and lasting outcomes," she said.

In addition to the report, WSU RISE has participated in several dissemination activities, including invited presentations, and plans to submit an academic article for peer review in the spring.

"This partnership between WSU and Washington's Juvenile Rehabilitation demonstrates the power of collaboration between universities and state agencies," Poppen said. "We're proud of our team's hard work and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important cause."