Prior to implementing the collaborative initiative, it became apparent that the first step in the process involved building an understanding of education from the perspectives of both public schools and the juvenile justice system. Factors influencing this reciprocal understanding included learning administrative hierarchies, professional terminology, and issues in educational service delivery in each setting. Juvenile detention center educators attended monthly meetings and professional conferences and developed a curriculum that facilitated communication with local educational activities. Continuing support activities focus on services to manage the transition from the detention center to the community setting, family interventions, and professional and program development. 11 references