This is the first part of a two-part series that delves into the complex issue of technology use among kids in juvenile detention facilities. These facilities, which are intended for educational purposes, are being misused by incarcerated youth, raising concerns about supervision and the overall well-being of these young individuals.

Uncovering the Truth Behind Juvenile Detention Technology Use

Part 1: Misuse of State-Provided Laptops

Kids in juvenile detention facilities are exploiting state-provided laptops meant for education. Agency disciplinary reports and those who worked in the system have revealed that these laptops are being used to post on Instagram, screen movies, and view pornography. Alyssa Richardson, a behavior analyst at the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), has witnessed this firsthand. "Every kid got put on a computer at taxpayer dollars," she said. "The first thing we started noticing... was the use of those computers. We noticed that the kids were watching movies all day, they were on social media, they were talking about social media, they were talking about what they were talking about on social media."Since the department launched a new educational model in July, there has been unprecedented access to technology but a lack of attention to the kids, including personalized education plans for those with learning disabilities or other needs. "Essentially, if there was no teacher, no computer, or the kids chose to watch a movie or pornography or message their friends all day, that’s what they’d do," Richardson added.When asked about students accessing unauthorized content, program administrators at the Florida Virtual School (FLVS), which oversees the program, said they take it seriously and are working closely with partners to ensure a distraction-free learning environment. They investigate all allegations of misuse and have taken additional security measures but cannot disclose specifics due to cybersecurity concerns.Last year, the state reorganized education programs for juvenile offenders, creating the "Florida Scholars Academy." This program administers online instruction to 38 residential centers housing DJJ students. The academy, operated by Florida Virtual under the direction of Superintendent Julian Cazañas Jr., delivers instruction remotely and in person in classrooms year-round.

Part 2: The Impact on Students and Staff

Youth in DJJ facilities range in age from 10 to 21. Exposure to porn while under the state's watch is a cause for concern. Heather Beaven, CEO of the Florida Endowment Foundation for Florida's Graduates, which has a presence in the DJJ system, emphasized this. "It’s not like you’re talking about a bunch of 16-year-olds who have already engaged in sex or, you know, have already seen porn or whatever. You’re talking about somebody’s baby being exposed to this, which is just all kinds of interesting given everything else going on in Florida."The program was serving about 1,900 students across Florida at the start of October. Residential juvenile detention facilities are operated by nonprofits but are subject to state law. Since education is separate from facility staff responsibilities, they may not be equipped to oversee classroom operations.When the program launched, FLVS hired 186 teachers, instructional leaders, paraprofessionals, school counselors, and registrars. The expectation was a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio and 30:1 student-to-paraprofessional ratio, despite 60% of students having learning disabilities. In October, 85% of positions were filled.In classrooms, it is unclear who is supposed to enforce discipline, even with adequate staff. In minimum security facilities, floor staff may not monitor school activities if there is no teacher present.A mother, Nyitecka Burden, whose 17-year-old son lived in Kissimmee Youth Academy, described a lack of supervision. Her son didn't receive his individualized education plan accommodations until the final weeks and received only 3.5 high school course credits instead of the expected 9 to 12. "He’s been angry for a long time, honestly, because he wasn’t learning, he wasn’t getting the things that he needed," she said.When teachers are not available to supervise computer use, monitoring is supposed to be done using filters and content screeners. The school touts its roots and constantly monitors its systems but cannot disclose specifics due to cybersecurity concerns.Beaven has called the implementation of the program "educational malpractice." DJJ officials said safeguarding students is a top priority and take immediate action when incidents occur. They continue to work with contracted providers and local school districts to enhance protections.Tomorrow: Juvenile Justice education program facing financial difficulties.Let us know what you think...