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The Impact of Comprehensive Student Support on Crime: Evidence from the Pathways to Education Program

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  • Adam M. Lavecchia
  • Philip Oreopoulos
  • Noah Spencer

Abstract

This study finds substantial reductions to criminal activity from the introduction of a comprehensive high school support program for disadvantaged youth living in the largest public housing project in Toronto. The program, called Pathways to Education, bundles supports such as regular coaching, tutoring, group activities, free public transportation tickets and bursaries for postsecondary education. In this paper, we use a difference-in-differences approach that compares students living in public housing communities where the program was offered to those living in communities where the program was not offered over time. We find that eligibility for Pathways reduces the likelihood of being charged with a crime by 32 percent at its Regent Park location. This effect is driven by a reduction in charges for breaking and entering, theft, mischief, other traffic offenses and Youth Criminal Justice Act offenses.

Suggested Citation

  • Adam M. Lavecchia & Philip Oreopoulos & Noah Spencer, 2024. "The Impact of Comprehensive Student Support on Crime: Evidence from the Pathways to Education Program," NBER Working Papers 32045, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:32045
    Note: CH ED LE LS PE
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. David J. Deming, 2011. "Better Schools, Less Crime?," The Quarterly Journal of Economics, President and Fellows of Harvard College, vol. 126(4), pages 2063-2115.
    2. Philip Oreopoulos & Robert S. Brown & Adam M. Lavecchia, 2017. "Pathways to Education: An Integrated Approach to Helping At-Risk High School Students," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 125(4), pages 947-984.
    3. David J. Deming & Justine S. Hastings & Thomas J. Kane & Douglas O. Staiger, 2014. "School Choice, School Quality, and Postsecondary Attainment," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 104(3), pages 991-1013, March.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education
    • I30 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General

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