<p> This research study evaluated the modified gap analysis of knowledge and skills, motivation, and organization on how low socioeconomic status (SES) Black male students who were exposed to community violence and participated in Our Kids, a pseudonym for a non-profit community based organization that provides extracurricular programs to at-risk males. The purpose of this study is to understand how the in-school violent behavior of low SES Black males affects these students&rsquo; abilities to realize future goals. Using the Clark and Estes (2008) gap analysis, the collection of data from interviews and documents identified and validated the source of the students&rsquo; performance gaps. Findings revealed that the urban school district had positive and negative aspects in its current program that addressed students&rsquo; in-school violent behavior. Overall, the findings exposed that the students in the study had procedural knowledge, knowledge of self-regulation and support their increase in knowledge of self-identity even though the documents exposed that Black male students may lack self-regulation. The students had self-efficacy and students&rsquo; emotions influence their motivation. The students believe that there is racial equities and opportunities to build trusting relationships but urban school district created a threatening environment. Yet, the documents show racial inequities. This research study recommends research-based solutions to assist organizations in decreasing in-school violent behavior. Finally, Our Kids can utilize the modified gap analysis model to identify and validate causes of performance gaps and recommend solutions.</p><p>

<p> After the largest one-time release of federal prisoners in October 2015, community colleges were charged with retooling and preparing individuals for careers. Community colleges were designed to provide individuals an entryway into higher education. Formerly incarcerated Black males seek community colleges to assist in transitioning into their communities, society, and family life. Community colleges are a good place to provide these transitional and academic resources. </p><p> This qualitative study explored the shared experiences of 16 formerly incarcerated Black male students attending 3 California community colleges. The study provided a better understanding of their background, experience while in college, and their desire to complete college. Utilizing the Strayhorn and Johnson&rsquo;s Community College Satisfaction Model as the conceptual framework, this dissertation study examined their (a) background traits <i> At Entry</i> of college, (b) Student engagement <i>Within</i> the college, and (c) overall satisfaction with the <i>Outcomes</i> of college. </p><p> The study used a phenomenological approach through qualitative interviews to capture the resources needed for formerly incarcerated Black male students who attended college in urban South Los Angeles, California. The interview questions were aligned with the research question, sub-questions and conceptual framework. Findings revealed 7 themes: Social Environment, Prison Industrial Complex, Perceptions of Education, Campus life, Aspirations, Activating Student Support, and Mentoring. Drawing from Yosso&rsquo;s Community Cultural Wealth, the study revealed participants had aspirations and used their social capital. </p><p> Findings indicate that they experienced some type of trauma and that faculty and student support services staff were key support in their community college experience. Further their experiences in prison affected their community college experience in these ways: hindered their social adaptation and maturation, prevented them from obtaining life skills, and blocked their educational attainment and continued stereotypes and stigmas. Programs like Umoja, Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS), Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS) and Formerly Incarcerated Student clubs were instrumental to student persistence. </p><p>