L.A. Colleges Partner with City Leaders to Offer Second Chances for Justice-Involved Youths Through the College and Career Pathway Program
Students who complete their academic program at one of LACCD colleges may have their case dismissed
LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón, in partnership with the LA County Public Defender’s Office, Probation Department, Superior Court and Los Angeles Mission College, has announced the launch of the College and Career Pathway Program (CCPP). This initiative offers an alternative for 16- to 18-year-olds accused of a crime, allowing them to pursue education and career opportunities instead of facing a criminal record.
“The CCPP offers a transformative alternative for youths accused of a crime,” District Attorney Gascón said. “Instead of facing a criminal record, these young people will be given the opportunity to pursue education and career opportunities, providing them with the tools to build a brighter future. My office is committed to addressing the root causes of crime and breaking the cycle that too often traps our youth in the criminal justice system.”
In the program, youths at least age 16 accused of a crime have an opportunity to earn a college certificate or degree in lieu of a criminal record. Upon arraignment, the four agencies — Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Probation Department and Superior Court — will assess each individual and collectively agree whether a youth is a strong candidate.
Students will be assigned to a community college and choose a program of study, which they are required to attend and complete. The youth’s charges will be suspended while they actively participate in the program, and upon completing a program at one of LACCD colleges, their case may be dismissed. Career counseling will be provided as well as access to support services, financial aid, tutoring, and student clubs.
“This program reflects the Los Angeles Community College District’s commitment to serving every member of our community, regardless of the challenges they’ve faced,” said Sara Hernandez, 2nd Vice President of the Los Angeles Community College Board of Trustees. “By providing an educational pathway at all nine of our colleges, we are creating a system of support that reaches beyond the classroom, offering young people the chance to become educated, employable, and empowered members of society.”
Program officials will consider factors such as the nature of the crime, gang-related concerns, and whether the youth would benefit from a new environment and support services available at one of the nine community colleges.
“For many justice-involved youth, traditional education has failed them. CCPP is about changing the course of a young person’s life by providing an alternative,” said Ricardo D. García, the Los Angeles County Public Defender. “It is an opportunity to gain education and career skills, and to break the cycle that often leads deeper into the system. Where other institutions have fallen short, we are committed to giving our youth the opportunity and hope to build a brighter future.”
Chief Probation Officer Guillermo Viera-Rosa emphasized the power in partnership.
“Los Angeles County Probation is proud to join forces with our county partners to establish educational pathways for Los Angeles County youth,” said Chief Probation Officer Viera-Rosa. “This partnership enables them to access higher education, unlocking greater opportunities and career options, and setting the foundation for successful and productive futures.”
