Currently, there are no federal or New Hampshire state laws specifically addressing how schools should support students with incarcerated caregivers. However, New Jersey's 2019 "Dignity for Incarcerated Primary Caretaker Parents Act" (A3979/S2540) offers a model by enhancing communication between incarcerated parents and their children, increasing transparency, and improving oversight of the Department of Corrections. While New Hampshire lacks similar legislation, this example highlights the potential for supporting these children.

The San Francisco Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership (SFCIPP) also provides valuable insights. SFCIPP, a coalition focused on improving the lives of children with incarcerated parents, developed a "Bill of Rights" to address their needs and validate their experiences. Formed in 2000, SFCIPP emphasizes the importance of viewing issues from the child’s perspective, balancing institutional concerns with children's rights (SFCIPP, 2005).

While New Hampshire doesn't have comparable laws, SFCIPP's work offers a framework for supporting these students in schools. Addressing the emotional and psychological effects of parental incarceration can help students overcome barriers to academic success, reinforcing their right to meaningful connections with caregivers.

In addition, it's important to recognize the challenges families face as a caregiver navigates the criminal justice system. The emotional toll on children can be significant, so schools and communities must provide empathetic support to foster resilience and ensure these children have the resources they need to succeed.

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References

San Francisco Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership. (2005). Children of incarcerated parents: A bill of rights (Revised Summer 2005). San Francisco Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership.