In this professional development research brief, the author sets forth the overarching considerations that should be kept in mind when conceptualizing professional development for educators working with neglected or delinquent youth (N or D). The brief begins by defining professional development and demonstrating why it is a critical support for educators and practitioners working in juvenile correctional settings. Next, the author presents the unique characteristics of the N or D population and highlight how having additional professional development could enable juvenile justice center staff to better understand and respond to the population's needs. The brief concludes with a summary of ideas for professional development suggested by coordinators. This section also includes a description of some practices currently being implemented in the field.