Themes From Currently Incarcerated Individuals About How to Close the School-to-Prison Pipeline

Authors

• Sanna King, Mississippi State University
• David C. May, Mississippi State University
• McKayla Joaquim, Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School
• Rachel Royce, Mississippi State University

ORCID

May: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8275-6773

MSU Affiliation

College of Arts and Sciences; Department of Sociology

Creation Date

2026-06-01

Abstract

The school-to-prison pipeline (STPP) is a metaphor for the pathway through which individuals are “pushed” out of school and into the criminal justice system. Research suggests that the disproportionate representation of marginalized groups in the STPP has important implications for their incarceration experiences as adults. Nevertheless, no research of which we are aware asks incarcerated individuals to provide recommendations to deal with the STPP. We use qualitative data from approximately 500 individuals incarcerated in a Southeastern state to gain insight about their recommendations for improving disciplinary practices in school settings. Themes that emerged from their responses include the importance of communication between students and teachers and various support programs. Important racial differences in the themes also exist.

Publication Date

11-21-2024

Publication Title

Prison Journal

Publisher

SAGE Publications

First Page

84

Last Page

108

Rights

© 2024 SAGE Publications

Recommended Citation

King, S., May, D. C., Joaquim, M., & Royce, R. (2025). Themes From Currently Incarcerated Individuals About How to Close the School-to-Prison Pipeline. The Prison Journal, 105(1), 84-108.