BIANCA VÁZQUEZ TONESS Education Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

Julie Nicoll shows shows an undated photo with her grandson Xavier Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Naples, Fla. Julie and her husband have spent more than $20,000 in legal fees trying to get him released from a youth detention center. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Takeaways from AP’s investigation into online school for incarcerated teens

August 13, 2025

Florida has moved the education of students in juvenile detention online, despite evidence that many students struggled with online school during the pandemic. The state contracted with Florida Virtual School to bring uniform standards to juvenile justice classrooms. However, an AP investigation shows this approach has been disastrous for some students. Incarcerated teens report difficulty understanding their work and getting help, leading to frustration and behavioral issues that extend their detention. They have also struggled to continue their education after release from detention. Some students have faced challenges re-entering local schools or continuing with Florida Virtual School, complicating their educational journey further.

Cayden Gillespie sits on a bench at a local park Saturday, April 26, 2025, in Gainesville, Fla. Gillespie spent months in juvenile detention after pleading guilty to two felony charges. While in custody the state of Florida provided online learning instead of in person classes which students, parents and staff say has been disastrous. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

In juvenile detention, these students say they’re not learning — and it’s keeping them incarcerated

August 13, 2025

Florida shifted to virtual learning for youth in juvenile detention — and parents and students say it’s been a disaster. The state adopted this approach for incarcerated youth, despite evidence that online learners struggled during the pandemic. Officials said they chose Florida Virtual School, known for its rigorous standards, in part to help students reintegrate into public schools. But students find the coursework difficult to understand. They say they have little support from qualified teachers, and their special education plans aren’t being met. This frustration often leads to behavioral issues, extending students’ time in detention, sometimes by months or more.

BIANCA VÁZQUEZ TONESS Education Writer.

Takeaways from AP’s investigation into online school for incarcerated teens

In juvenile detention, these students say they’re not learning — and it’s keeping them incarcerated

Finance.