Caddo Juvenile Justice Committee considers program to steer students away from jail

SHREVEPORT, La. - The Caddo Parish Juvenile Justice Committee met Friday to discuss a new pilot project designed to keep local children out of the justice system.

The program, titled "Caddo Promise," specifically targets students at Atkins and J.S. Clark Elementary schools. Under the proposal, the parish would spend $200,000 to connect at-risk students with a support network of coaches, ministers, and mentors.

Program administrators argue the upfront cost is a strategic investment. They cited the "Heckman equation," which suggests that for every dollar spent on early intervention for a child, the parish saves $13 in future costs related to welfare and incarceration.

The proposal faced pushback from Commission President Greg Young, who voiced concerns that the parish may be overstepping into responsibilities traditionally held by the school board. Young indicated he wants to see other local agencies provide financial support before the parish moves forward with the full investment.

The committee is scheduled to meet again next month to discuss whether the city of Shreveport will join the partnership.