Research shows that the educational outcomes for state custody youth in the USA are poor. The primary mission of child protective services is the physical safety of children, and child welfare specialists are not trained educators. Public education systems have had difficulty in establishing effective programs within youth shelters. This study contributes to our knowledge base to improve outcomes for custodial youth in such areas as grade retention, drop-out rates, and skill acquisition. This study focuses on the educational environment in one youth shelter school in Oklahoma, but it reflects the conditions in most youth shelters in the state, according to the author. This qualitative ethnography will be useful for child psychologists, educational reformers, teachers, and youth services directors in local governments.