How were reform schools an improvement over prisons?

Reform schools were designed to focus on rehabilitation and education rather than punishment, emphasizing the moral and social development of young offenders. Unlike prisons, which often perpetuated a cycle of crime through harsh conditions and a lack of support, reform schools aimed to provide a structured environment with vocational training and counseling. This approach sought to address the underlying issues that led to delinquent behavior, ultimately fostering a better chance for reintegration into society. Overall, reform schools represented a shift towards a more humane and constructive response to youth crime.