55th Annual JCCASAC Conference

The Building a Better Brother program is a transformative initiative designed to empower justice-impacted youth by equipping them with entrepreneurial skills and social-emotional development, fostering pathways for success beyond the justice system. By integrating entrepreneurship and SEL, this program not only supports rehabilitation and economic empowerment but also cultivates a mindset of resilience, leadership, and self-determination. This workshop will provide attendees with a proven framework for embedding these essential skills within juvenile facilities, demonstrating how strategic mentorship, hands-on business development, and emotional intelligence training can reframe scholars’ perspectives on their potential. Through this holistic approach, scholars are empowered to reclaim their narratives, develop a strong sense of agency, and position themselves as architects of their futures—effectively transforming challenges into opportunities for sustained personal and professional success.

This one-hour interactive session is designed to engage school site administrators and staff in courageous, equity-centered dialogue. Participants will explore the difference between equity and equality, examine how systemic and implicit biases show up in school practices, and reflect on how everyday decisions can impact student access, inclusion, and outcomes.
Participants will engage in real-world scenarios, develop greater self-awareness, and identify practices that can shift their school culture toward greater equity. This session emphasizes reflection, collaboration, and action—empowering educators to lead with courage and commitment in the pursuit of educational justice.