Young people with records of involvement in the juvenile justice system were studied in Florida, primarily in the inner city of Tampa. The study is part of a longitudinal study of predictors of drug use, delinquency, and criminality. Overall, 32 percent of the 297 adolescents interviewed reported engaging in drug sales in the year preceding their initial interviews, and 35 percent sold drugs 1 or more times in the follow-up period. Only 13 percent lived with both biological parents, and most came from families of low to moderate social status. The following common findings indicative of at-risk status were physical abuse and sexual abuse, drug use, and other delinquent behaviors. The sample demonstrated high levels of behaviors and attitudes considered indicators of school problems and poor experiences of education. Case studies of three adolescents for whom the outlook is relatively positive and three for whom the prospects are negative provide insight into the conditions that predispose these youngsters to risk. Policies are suggested for the improvement of schools and the education of teachers to help combat the conditions that put youth at risk. Community supports and resources that can be mobilized for the effort are explored. Improved educational experiences and educational environments are vital for disadvantaged youth. (Contains 43 references.) (SLD)