Major findings from the study include: youth released from juvenile institutions who had above average academic achievement levels were significantly more likely to return to school after release compared to youth with below average academic achievement levels; and youths released from residential programs, regardless of demographic characteristics, age/grade level, and prior arrest history, were significantly less likely to be rearrested within 12 and 24 months following release from incarceration if they returned to school and had higher levels of attendance. This study examined the relationship between levels of educational achievement while incarcerated, post-release schooling, and an increased risk of recidivism in a sample of juvenile offenders released from juvenile justice institutions throughout Florida during fiscal year 2000-2001. Data for the study were obtained from two sources: the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and covered a 3-year period - the year of release and two additional follow-up years. The findings from the study indicate that for juvenile offenders, educational achievement levels and school attendance may be associated with a transition away from further involvement in criminal activity. Implications for research and policy changes are discussed. Tables, notes, and references