Directions: a publication of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Vol. 13, no. 2 (Summer 2007)

Directions

D A publication
of the Georgia

epartment of Juvenile Justice

Volume XIII, Issue No. 2 Summer 2007

COMMISSIONER'S CORNER

I Winning Teams Leadership At All Levels want to focus my comments in this edition of Directions on Every team member is valued for his or her contribution and

leadership teams that make a real difference from day to day. special skill set. Further distinguished from a ball club, the

The success of most organizations depends on not just a environment is not characterized by competition, but rather by

good strategic plan execut-

an ongoing desire for indi-

ed by good leadership, but

vidual victories within the

rests heavily with the

clientele served.

strength of special teams

who can provide the link-

I want to highlight a pre-

age and coordination to

miere special team in this

make good things happen.

article which helps to set

In sports, coaches invest a

policy and provide direc-

great deal of time building

tion to the many staff of

special teams that are

DJJ who serve on their own

called upon to execute at

special team. I speak of the

critical times in the game.

four members of my execu-

The execution by the spe-

tive team pictured here. Dr.

cial teams is critical to the

Thomas Coleman is Deputy

success of the overall or

Commissioner of Program

total team and often times can make the difference

(L-R) Members of the DJJ Executive Team: Dr. Thomas Coleman, Amy Howell, Jeff Minor and Rob Rosenbloom

Services, Jeff Minor Deputy Commissioner

is of

between winning and los-

Fiscal and Administrative

ing. Without their participation, the total team more often than Services, Rob Rosenbloom is Deputy Commissioner of

not is overburdened and lacks the stamina to finish the game Operations and Amy Howell is Director of Legal Services.

with a win. Coaches understand this and take great pains to Each of these team members was chosen for the special skills

carefully select each member of their special team. They also they bring to the top of the agency and how their skill sets

must know the strength of their special teams and when to call complement my skills and leadership style as Commissioner.

upon them. In business, the utilization of special teams may Within this winning team is captured agency history, two bar

be a little different, but their worth and value to the total team certified attorneys, an Ed.D., and many years of combined

are very comparable.

public service and juvenile justice experience. While these

credentials are impressive and have great meaning to me,

The Department of Juvenile Justice is made up of many spe- more important to me is their "buy-in" of my philosophy and

cial teams which contribute in a very special way to the over- commitment to quality, fairness, and good customer service.

all mission of the agency. Without these teams, progress These individuals were chosen not because their manage-

would be difficult ment styles were similar to mine, but because their styles, as

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

from day to day. well as their experiences, were different. Together we bring to These teams exist the agency significant diversity in age, gender, race, back-

SPECIAL EVENTS

within the central ground, and experience. This, in my way of thinking, is what office and through- makes us strong as a team and gives us potential to become

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

out the agency, and stronger. I am thankful for the work and dedication of this they include the team and will take this time to declare my executive team as a

BOARD NOTES

secure facilities, top winning team in Georgia government. I value each mem-

STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS

community pro- ber of this team as much as I do the agency staff as a whole. grams, and the many I salute my executive team and as a part of this I also salute special service pro- the direct reports that work with my office and the winning

PROGRAM SERVICES FISCAL AND

grams and offices teams on which they serve. The work done by these teams in operated by DJJ. 2007 and in the coming years will be invaluable to me and to Unlike a ball club, the many citizens of this state who depend on us for public

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES there is no primary safety and for safe communities in Georgia.

OPERATIONS

team and every team member is a starter.

-Albert Murray, Commissioner

SPECIAL EVENTS

THE DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE REACHES A MILESTONE

The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice celebrates its 15th anniversary as a stand alone department this year.

In 1992, the DJJ, originally called the Department of Children and Youth Services, was created by the Georgia General Assembly. Previously, the department had been part of the Georgia Department of Human Resources.

To celebrate the anniversary, former commissioners, DJJ board members, state legislators and officials from the City of Avondale Estates joined Commissioner Albert Murray and DJJ central office staff for a ceremony and luncheon on Tuesday, July 17.

"This is a very special day for the Department of Juvenile Justice," Commissioner Murray told the crowd. "And we're delighted to have many, many guests from around the state and here in the area."

State Representative Stan Watson thanked DJJ employees and board members for their hard work. "Let me just say thank you to the Department of Juvenile Justice for all they've done, and on behalf of the DeKalb house delegation, which I chair, we'd like to say thank you for all that you're doing for our children," Watson said.

Representatives Stacey Abrams and Kevin Levitas also attended and spoke to employees.

Avondale Estates Mayor Jerry McCumber said the city was glad to have the

DJJ within its borders. "I want you to know how happy and thrilled we are in

Avondale Estates to have the Department of Juvenile Justice as one of our Commissioner Albert Murray (second from left) with former DJJ

corporate citizens," he said. McCumber attended with City Manager Ron Commissioners Greg Maxey (left), Orlando Martinez (second from

Rabun and Police Chief Gary Broden.

right) and Eugene Walker (right)

Former commissioners Eugene Walker, Orlando Martinez and Greg Maxey also attended the ceremony.

Commissioner Murray praised his predecessors. "There have been a number of individuals who held the job that I now hold who helped move the agency from its first years of operation until now. Each of these individuals were strong leaders in their own way. They helped to move the agency's agenda. They helped to move the agency's mission, and to make it stronger in some manner," he said.

Walker, who was commissioner from 1995 through 1999, said the Department of

"This is a very special Juvenile Justice holds a special place in his heart. "I want you to know I regard you as part of my extended family," he said.

day for the Department

Martinez, who helmed the DJJ from 1999 through 2003, said the state of Georgia
of Juvenile Justice." showed a great deal of foresight in creating a separate department to deal with juve-

-Commissioner Albert Murray

niles. "Juvenile justice systems that are under umbrellas, that are part of those large

agencies that some states have, really suffer from a lot of neglect, basically fiscal neg-

lect, and that's not what happened here with the Department of Juvenile Justice in

Georgia," Martinez said.

Maxey, who was acting commissioner from 2003 to 2004, said working for the DJJ was an important part of his life and a rewarding experience. He also said the DJJ did a tremendous job. "It takes a dedicated, special person to do the work that you do," Maxey told the audience.

DJJ Board Chairman Daniel Shuman closed out the ceremony with an anecdote about how he almost cut short his career in court services. Shuman said that before he could be hired he had to get the approval of the local superior court judge, so he dressed in his best suit and went to the courthouse. When he got to the office he found a man in a flannel shirt rooting through the trash.

"I said, `Hey buddy you know where the judge is?'" Shuman said. "And he straightened up and said, `This is he.'"

2 /directions/

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

`07 SESSION HAS UPS AND DOWNS

The Department of Juvenile Justice is committed to the vision

of offering Georgia's youth the opportunity to achieve their

highest potential with a commitment to best practices in juve-

nile corrections. To this end, Commissioner Albert Murray has

made legislative advocacy a top priority by pushing for law

changes that will impact how youthful offenders are treated in

Georgia.

The 2007

session was

at times acri-

monious,

which result-

ed in some

budget set-

backs and a

very limited

agenda not

only for DJJ

Spiro Amburn, legislative director

but other agencies as

well. Nonetheless, the agency was able to build upon the

successes of previous years by working with the Governor's

office and the General Assembly to secure some budget

enhancements and bi-partisan support for improvements to

the juvenile code.

HB 153, sponsored by Representative Barry Loudermilk of Cassville, mainly impacts the Department of Family and Children Services, but DJJ was able to get one of the agency's legislative proposals regarding commitment of deprived children included in the bill. The change brings clarity to a section of the law by ensuring that any youth who has issues relating to deprivation must also commit a delinquent act in order to be committed to DJJ. This will help ensure that deprived and delinquent children will be appropriately placed and served.

HR 21, by Representative Tom Dickson of Cohutta, renamed the Dalton Regional Youth Detention Center in honor of Elbert Shaw, a long-time volunteer at the facility. (see story pg. 10)

Another bill related to juvenile justice was HB 270 by Representative David Ralston of Blue Ridge. This bill relates to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). DJJ supported this bill because a CASA can be a positive participant in deprivation proceedings. Thorough assessment and resolution of issues concerning deprivation can reduce the likelihood of involvement with the juvenile justice system. DJJ is specifically exempt from the provisions requiring access to records, which is important to maintain child confidentiality.

The budget-writing process is always interesting, and this year was no different. The negotiations between the House, Senate and Governor's office were well documented. As a

result of the negotiations, DJJ came away with some setbacks and gains for FY 2008. The most significant setbacks were reductions in operating budgets for secure facilities. These reductions included $1.5 million from Youth Development Campuses (YDCs) and $1 million from Regional Youth Detention Centers (RYDCs). Reductions of this level for secure facilities would require the closure of secure beds or a reduction in staffing levels. The rationale for the cut was due to the fact that DJJ is treating more juveniles in the community. However, existing bed capacity remains necessary due to population trends. Even with more community-based treatment, DJJ is unable to close secure beds or reduce staffing levels without seriously jeopardizing the safety and security of youthful offenders housed in these facilities as well as compliance with requirements set by the U.S. Department of Justice. Additionally, a request for $1.1 million to cover increases in utility costs was not funded. Commissioner Murray and staff are working to develop creative solutions to these budget cuts which will restore funding needed for secure facilities. This effort will require collaboration with the Governor's office and legislative leadership.
The good news is that there were some significant enhancements that were recommended by the Governor and approved by the General Assembly. Among these were $3.2 million for 67 positions to the Community Supervision Program, which includes 55 new probation officers statewide. This is the second year of a four-year plan to reduce case-
loads and improve community-based services. A number of other enhancements were approved, including $600,000 for the "Think Exit at Entry" academic and employment program which provides transitional services to youth in YDCs returning to the community. The hard working staff of DJJ will also receive a three percent pay increase effective January 1st.
DJJ will continue to look for ways to treat youthful offenders in the most effective and cost-efficient manner. The Department will be collaborating with other agencies and stakeholder groups to build consensus on the direction for Georgia's juvenile justice system. This will include participating in a statewide summit which will take place in the Fall.
"Today, there is a greater awareness of the challenges facing DJJ and the entire juvenile justice system than there was four years ago," said Spiro Amburn, director of legislative services. "We look forward to working with legislators, judges and other stakeholders to ensure that Georgia's system is based on core principles and best practices."

3 /directions/

BOARD NOTES
GOVERNOR SONNY PERDUE ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD OF JUVENILE JUSTICE
Bruce L. Garraway (left), of Grayson, has been appointed to the Board of Juvenile Justice to represent the 7th Congressional District. Garraway is a high school history teacher at Killian Hill Christian School. He is a member of the Snellville City Council and has been appointed Mayor Pro Tempore. He is a member of the Georgia Municipal Association, the Gwinnett Municipal Association and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. He earned a bachelor's degree from Oklahoma Baptist College, a master's from Crown College and is a graduate of the Coverdell Leadership Institute. Garraway and his wife, Rebekah, have one child.
Dexter O. Rowland (right), of Stone Mountain, has been appointed to the Board of Juvenile Justice. Rowland is a pastor of the New Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur and will represent the 4th Congressional District. He is a member of the board of directors at the South DeKalb YMCA and the board of visitors of the Grady Health System. He earned a bachelor's degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology and master's degrees from Mercer University and Emory University. Rowland and his wife, Sonya, have three children.
Judge Thomas C. Rawlings (left), of Sandersville, has left the Judicial Advisory Council of the Board of Juvenile Justice. Judge Rawlings was selected by Governor Sonny Perdue as Georgia's new Child Advocate. As a result of the appointment, Judge Rawlings is leaving the bench and therefore cannot continue as a judicial advisory member to the board. Judge Rawlings' new appointment was effective in July. He was named to the Board of Juvenile Justice in March.
BOARD OF JUVENILE JUSTICE VISITS DJJ FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS
Each summer the Board of Juvenile Justice gets away from their routine by moving several meetings away from the Department of Juvenile Justice Central Office in Decatur.
In May, the Board traveled to Americus, holding its monthly meeting at the Sumter Youth Development Campus (YDC), where Director Glynn Maddox hosted the board along with a meeting of all YDC facility directors and central office staff.
Department of Juvenile Justice Commissioner Albert Murray says by moving the board meetings to various sites during the summer, board members benefit by going into the field and meeting DJJ staff, touring the facilities and adding to their overall experience, all of which benefits the agency as the Board assists the department in meeting its mission. Commissioner Murray says, "With so many new board members, these off-site meetings are proving to be extremely beneficial and meaningful, especially to the newest members." Governor Sonny Perdue has made several appointments in 2007 as he moves to complete the 15 member board and three member judicial advisory council. Several of the board members toured the Sumter YDC for the first time.
In June, in conjunction with annual school board training required for Board of Juvenile Justice members, the monthly board meeting was held in Savannah. Because the Department of Juvenile Justice operates as the 181st Georgia school district, the Board of Juvenile Justice operates as its school board and is required by law to take annual training. Training was conducted at the annual Georgia School Boards Association Conference June 20 and 21. The Board of Juvenile Justice held its monthly meeting in Savannah June 20. Tours of the Savannah Regional Youth Detention Center and the Chatham County Multi-Service Center were made available, and local staff presented to the Board during the board meeting. (continued on next page)
4 /directions/

BOARD NOTES
BOARD OF JUVENILE JUSTICE VISITS DJJ FACILITIES AND OPERATIONS
Board Member James Kelly of Alpharetta attended both off-site meetings. Kelly, who joined the Board in March, stated, "Being able to meet DJJ staff, hear about their responsibilities, and the programs provided to the youth, will help make me a productive board member. I'm impressed with the quality of people this agency has."
At both meetings, local leaders and elected officials attended, showing their support for the agency and board as well as learning more about DJJ and local operations.
In August, the Board visited the Georgia Public Safety Training DJJ Board Chairman Daniel Shuman presides over the Center which includes the Department of Juvenile Justice Training May board meeting at the Sumter YDC Academy.

STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS

SUSAN BUTLER AND BRENDA RIGGINS RETIRE FROM DJJ AFTER 34 YEARS OF SERVICE

On June 29, 2007 Susan Butler retired from the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice with 34 years of service. This
culminated a long career with DJJ which began when Butler took her first job with the Hall County Court Services Office as a part-time secretary in 1968. In 1973, her secretarial position became full-time. In 1990, Butler became familiar with DJJ staff statewide when she took the position Susan Butler as program associate at the Gainesville Group Home. She worked diligently with hundreds of youth who went through the Gainesville Group Home program. In 2003, Butler was promoted to Administrative Operations

Coordinator in the District 2 Office.

On April 20, 2007, the Macon

Youth Development Campus

(YDC) celebrated the retire-

ment of Brenda C. Riggins.

Riggins served the Department

of Juvenile Justice and the Debbie Blasingame, director of the

Macon YDC for 34 years.

Emitt

Macon YDC (left,) and Dr. Thomas Coleman, deputy commissioner of

Griswold, past director of the program services, (right), with Brenda

Macon YDC, was among the Riggins

guests honoring Riggins.

BRENDA STONE AND LARRY KENYON RETIRE AFTER MANY YEARS AT BILL IRELAND YDC

Family, friends and past and present co-workers at Bill Ireland Youth Development Campus (YDC) honored Larry Kenyon, administrative operations manager, and Brenda Stone, accounting paraprofessional, at a retirement celebration on July 6 at the Milledgeville Country Club.

Kenyon retired effective May 31st with 23 years of service. He worked 22 years for the DJJ after transferring from Georgia Military College. Before working for the state, he served in the Army.

Stone retired effective August 1st with 34 years of service. She spent her entire career with the Department, starting her career as an accounting clerk.
Brenda Stone and Larry Kenyon
DISTRICT DIRECTOR EDDIE SHERRER RETIRES AFTER 34 YEARS OF PUBLIC SERVICE
Clarence E. "Eddie" Sherrer Jr. retired from the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) on June 30, 2007 after 34 years of service to the State of Georgia.

Sherrer became a state employee on March 3, 1977 at the Dalton Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC) as a house parent. After two years at the Division of Family and Children Services, he returned to the DJJ in 1977 as a court service worker I in Troup County. He worked his way through the ranks to become District Director, District 4. Sherrer's numerous contributions to the department, his concern for the youth and families served, his concern for employees, and his outstanding work ethic will be missed.

Clarence E. "Eddie" Sherrer

5 /directions/

STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
ROBERT FULLER, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES, RETIRES
Robert "Bob" Fuller, director of the Office of Human Resources (HR), retired effective July 13 from the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice.

Fuller served the agency in the Office of Human Resources since March of 1995. He became director of Human Resources in October 2001. Fuller retired from the U.S. Army in 1985 after 20 years and joined state government with the Department of Human Resources as a personnel supervisor at Georgia Regional Hospital in Augusta. A retirement farewell event was held July 6, 2007 in Central Office.

DJJ HR Deputy Director Janie Claiborne has been appointed acting director of Human Resources effective July 16, 2007. She has over 30 years of human resources management related experience in state government, and she has been with the Department's Office of Human Resources since March 2001.

Bob Fuller and his wife Jackie

Commissioner Albert Murray says, "Bob served the agency well and deserves much appreciation and this retirement. DJJ is losing a quality leader." Murray added, "We expect to lose senior staff from time to time, fortunately Janie is another example of the excellent bench strength this agency is able to draw from. Under Bob's leadership, HR has met head on many tremendous challenges and we expect that to continue under Janie's leadership."

PROMOTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

Chris Jasina has been selected as the Assistant District Director, District 2. He previously served as the JPM in Stephens CSO. He began his career with the Department in 1981 as a court service worker in DeKalb County. He received his bachelor of science degree in criminal justice from Eastern Michigan University in 1979.
Wade Moore has been selected as District 4 Director. Moore has been an employee of the Department of Juvenile Justice since 1990 in the progressively responsible positions of juvenile detention counselor, juvenile probation parole specialist II, adjunct trainer, juvenile program manager, assistant RYDC director and assistant district director. He has bachelor's degrees from Auburn University in the fields of psychology and sociology.
Billy Wicker has been selected as Assistant Director for the Sandersville RYDC. Wicker has 22 years of experience with Department of Corrections (DOC). He began his career as a corrections officer I and worked his way up through the ranks to the position of deputy warden of security with the DOC, prior to joining DJJ.

Rusty Rodgers has been selected as Assistant District Director, District 9. Rodgers has worked for the Department of Juvenile Justice since 1998 when he began as a juvenile probation parole specialist II. He was promoted to a juvenile probation parole specialist III in 2000 and juvenile program manager in 2003. He holds a bachelor's degree from Georgia Southern University.
Herman Archie has been selected as Assistant District Director, District 8. He has been with the department for 14 years and has served in the capacities of JCO, JPPS II, JPPS III, JPM, multi-service center manager and field based investigator. He has a bachelor of science degree in communications and a master's degree in criminal justice.
Jeff Alligood has been selected as District Director, District 9. Alligood has been employed with the Department of Juvenile Justice since 1989 when he began as a court service worker. He was promoted to the position of juvenile program manager in 1995. In 2002, he began his present position of assistant district director. He holds a bachelor's degree
6 /directions/

from Presbyterian College and a master's in family studies from Mercer University.

Dr. Judy Riley has been selected as Director of the Planning, Research and Program Evaluation Unit in the Office of Technology and Information Services (OTIS). Riley recently worked at Kennesaw State University as a research associate and project director for the A. L. Burruss Institute of Public Service and Research. Riley received her Ph.D. in criminology from Florida State University and her master's and bachelor's degrees from Georgia State.

Brenda Davis has been promoted to

the position of Multi-Service Center

Manager of the Chatham County

MSC. Davis has been employed with

DJJ since 2000 as a JPPS I, JPPS II

and juvenile program manager in

Chatham County. She was instrumen-

tal in the implementation of school

based supervision in the Chatham

County

Alternative

School.

Davis holds a bachelor of science

degree in criminal justice from

Savannah State University and a mas-

ter's degree in criminal justice from

Armstrong Atlantic State University.

STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS

Rodney Dinkins has been appointed the new Director of the Savannah RYDC. He served as acting director of the facility prior to his permanent appointment. Dinkins began his employment with DJJ at Claxton RYDC in 1995 as a JCO I and has been promoted to the positions of detention counselor, assistant director and director.
Tahesha Wade has been selected as the new Multi-Service Center Manager of the DeKalb County MSC. She began her career with State of Georgia in 2003. She has worked as a JPPS II and juvenile program manager in DeKalb and Fayette counties. She also has prior experience with the State of Michigan's Department of Human Services working in a community-based mental health program. Wade has a master's degree in organizational management.

Anthony Wynn has been selected as Director of the McIntosh YDC. Wynn joined the McIntosh team from Rockville, Maryland were he was the facility superintendent. He holds a bachelor of science in business administration from Alcorn State University.
Kevin E. Johnson has been selected as Assistant Director of the Loftiss RYDC. He has been with the Department of Public Safety for 24 years where he has served as a master trooper and director of security. While providing service as head of security for the Lt. Governor, he received many commendations for his superior leadership skills and high standards of excellence. He received the Peace Officer of the Year award in 1992. Johnson attended Valdosta State University where he obtained a bachelor's degree in communications.

COMING TO AMERICA AND BECOMING AN AMERICAN

I became an American on May 24, 2007! I marvel at the journey and experiences that have brought me here to Georgia. I was happily a Canadian, never expecting to be an American, but fell in love with an American, Herman Davis, from Dodge County. I moved here in July 1999 after accepting a job at Eastman Youth Development Campus as the first, and only, SSP II. Herman and I married in 2000.

When I moved to Georgia, I did not fully appreciate the cultural differences between rural and urban; north and south; and Canada and the USA. English is spoken in both countries, but just a bit differently. I was at training in Forsyth, and was told about a class called, "Dangers of Farms." I wondered why that was a topic. What would police need to know? Are there a lot of deaths with farm machinery? Later, I learned the class was "Dangers of Firearms," pronounced "faaarms." I learned how to use "Ya'all," "Ya'lls," and "All Ya'll's." I have found so many uses for "might can." I use it all the time now. I have learned to pro-
nounce the names of cities and states in a Georgian way: Atlannna, Fla'da, Miss-ippi, Jaw-ja and so on.

Ionna Thiessen, LCSW, RBHSA Region V

Of course, language barriers work both ways. I once left a voice message for someone saying I would be "out and about." When the person I left the message for called me back, she asked how I enjoyed being "out on a boat." An Eastman YDC youth once asked me if I were deaf. I said, "No, I'm Canadian," and he was okay with that. Becoming an American citizen took seven years. For a long time, I could visit Canada only if I had permission, which took the form of a "parole" document. When my daughter Lara graduated from University, I attended. When I got to Canada, I hugged my daughter and exclaimed, "Oh my! I was so concerned that my parole would not come through in time!" Lara said, "Mom, please stop using that word in the airport!" I realized that many people were looking at me, thinking I was on parole from prison!

The first month I was at Eastman YDC, staff did not know what to do with me. I was given an old book on gangs and left alone, for a whole month! I really needed and appreciated the support Rick Harrison provided as the Behavioral Health Regional Coordinator, and also Ron Koon's leadership. Both kept me focused on the goal of mental health treatment and care for our young people. I am now a Regional BH Services Administrator and part of a very dedicated team. I really appreciate working with DJJ. The kind and dedicated staff and thoughtful focus on the future of our young people is truly outstanding.

Becoming an American is the end of a long process. There were many mandatory meetings in Atlanta that took precedence over all else. There was a test for which I studied hard. I had not fully realized how important it was for me until the day I pledged allegiance and was given a flag. American history is now my history. The American future is my future. I can now vote! Becoming an American is part of my commitment to my husband, to my family and to my future in Georgia. Herman and I are going to Canada in August to celebrate my parents' sixtieth wedding anniversary, but my home is in Georgia. I am an American! I am now a Georgian, and my accent is now a Georgia accent. Kinda neat eh? Oops! Have to watch that Canadian "eh!" It escapes every once in a while. -Ionna Thiessen
7 /directions/

PROGRAM SERVICES
YOUTHS AT SUMTER YDC HELP HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
On June 25, 2007, the Sumter Youth Development Campus began a restorative justice project with the local Habitat for Humanity Agency. Four students who have completed their GED are currently participating in the construction class which is housed at a secure Habitat site in Americus, Georgia.

The students are currently building a fully framed storage house for use at a new Habitat house. This process will allow them to learn framing, flooring, roof rafters, and roofing techniques just like they would learn on a full sized house. The students are at the site from 8:30 until 2:30 three days a week. Eventually they will begin to build roof trusses which will be transported to future Habitat houses. The students are experiencing real job training and are now returning service to the community and society. These involved students have a new appreciation and concern for others through this project.

Youths as Sumter YDC work on a Habitat House

The project was developed under the leadership of Sumter YDC Director Glynn Maddox, former Director Derek Glisson, Assistant Director Mordie Askew, and Principal Frank Spearman with assistance from Regional Administrator Ronnie Woodard, Assistant Deputy Commissioner Gordon Fisher and Vocational Instructor Willie Yarbrough.

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION THRIVES AT YDCS
Vocational education in the Department of Juvenile Justice is alive and well at the Augusta, Macon, Eastman, Sumter, Muscogee, and Bill Ireland Youth Development Campuses. A visitor to one of these sites would see youth actively engaged in horticulture, auto mechanics, collision repair, cosmetology, construction, family and consumer science, and computer technology classes. Career Technical Education (CTE) plays a vital role in the comprehensive educational program designed to provide DJJ youth with the tools to become what we hope will be productive citizens as they return to their respective communities.

This year 25 full-time instructors and two administrative consultants are currently directing 1,025 students in one or more of nine vocational programs throughout the system. Students in these programs have been very productive, completing 145 semesters of work for Carnegie units of credit toward a high school or technical school diploma.

Horticulture teacher Deborah Henderson instructs youths at Eastman YDC

Under a plan for dual enrollment with area technical colleges, many DJJ students are receiving high school credit for their courses which may also apply toward college certificates designed by the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education (DTAE). These DTAE courses, a part of the DJJ Curriculum, are now available to all our students. Those who qualify for admission at the Technical College are given credit toward a high school diploma as well as a technical certificate as they complete courses in a particular program. Through the end of May, there have been 375 DTAE courses completed by DJJ students.

In addition to the youth working in the vocational programs, there are 182 students pursuing a GED at the six youth development campuses where CTE programs are offered. These teachers have also been very producCarroll Amerson, construction teacher, supervises youths tive, directing eighty-one students to earn a GED so far this school year.
at the Eastman YDC as they build a shed
The future looks bright for the students in the Department of Juvenile Justice. All CTE teachers are expected to return for 2007-08 school year. Support continues to be strong from the state and federal government to carry on the vocational programs in place. Through this effort, the agency plans to meet its mission which is to provide a comprehensive educational program to facilitate the successful integration of each student into the community and workplace.

8 /directions/

FISCAL & ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
SECOND MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM CLASS GRADUATES
The DJJ Management and Leadership Development Training Unit in the Office of Training graduated 11 agency managers from the second Management Development Program Class. The graduation ceremony was held April 12, 2007 at Emerald Pointe, Lake Lanier Islands.

Those graduating were:

Loretta Kitchens JPPS III Sumter Court Services Office Louann Overstreet JPM Dougherty Court Services Office Gary Sullivan JPM Hall Court Services Office Michelle Stanley Assistant District Director District 6 Lalita Appling Assistant Director Macon YDC Johnnie Carter Lieutenant Augusta RYDC Partrounar Bryant-James Case Expeditor Metro RYDC Fredrick Bryant JPM Crisp Court Services Office Tania Appling Assistant Director Bill Ireland YDC Shereatha Sims JPM Muscogee MSC Cheryl Smith JPM Sumter Court Services Office

Deputy Commissioner Rob Rosenbloom, Juvenile Program Manager Louann Overstreet and Commissioner Albert Murray

The Management Development Program replaced the stand-alone Discipline Without Punishment, Performance Management Planning Training, and new supervisors training as a means to address the need to develop and provide specific training to existing supervisors and managers as well as the need to groom potential individuals who show an interest in future management positions within the department.

The Management Development Program is committed to being an integral part in developing a valued and productive workforce, which provides the agency's resources for organizational success, improved morale, and increased collective performance.

The Management Development Program features methods and strategies including a "learning while doing" problem-based strategic approach via learning experiences in various areas to include Management and Leadership Theories, Project Management, Strategic Planning, Imagine 21, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People and other pertinent topics relevant to managerial practices. DJJ has utilized this program as a resource to develop strategies for solving or creating new approaches to solving existing issues the agency faces. The second Management Development Program class was assigned to work on alleviating several existing DJJ issues, by developing necessary strategies, plans and actions.

The entire training program took about 18 months to complete. Office of Training Director Fabienne Tate says the graduates should be commended for the effort put forth. She added, "They had the desire to stay the course in order to see the program through to completion."
Operations

THEATRE GROUP BRINGS OUT TALENT AT METRO RYDC

"You can do whatever you set your mind to." We've all heard that from so many different people in our lives, however some youth never really understand it to be possible. At the Metro Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC), Georgia female juvenile offenders are learning that the saying is true if they use the opportunities they're given.
Synchronicity, an Atlanta theatre group, teaches the girls play writing and acting skills. Members of the group volunteer themselves several times each year, helping the youths write skits and act the plays out over a two-day period, culminating in an evening performance for family, friends and other residents of the RYDC. The program is called "Playmaking for Girls." Susie Purcell, program director for

Synchronicity says, "They (youth) can do things they never thought they could do. They have the power to change the way they think about what they can do." Purcell adds, "We can help spark something in them and help them grow into creative, peaceful women who can make a difference."

In May, 10 female youths, ages 13-15, worked with

Synchronicity's staff, writing short plays dealing with the

reality that many teens face today. One of the skits was

titled, "That's What Friends Are For." This play dealt with

the lead character sneaking into bars with a fake I.D. with

the evening ending in tragedy due to her choices. As the

play continues she is able to rely on a close friend for help

to see her way through the ordeal.

(continued on pg 10)

9 /directions/

OPERATIONS

THEATRE GROUP BRINGS OUT TALENT AT METRO RYDC

Another play called, "Why Do Good Girls Like Bad Guys?," dealt with another bad choice of a young female teen who goes with a young male teen. The male steals and the end result is both youths being arrested.
While the plays hold messages for the audience and the youth acting them out, the act of going through the exercise shows what these youth can accomplish. After the evening performance one parent stated, "It doesn't surprise me what young kids can do," as she smiled showing how proud she was of her daughter. The parent added, "Stuff (Synchronicity) like this is what we need."
Metro RYDC Assistant Director Debbie Alexander says the program is very much needed because there aren't many programs for females. Alexander says, "Given the chance to participate in something, they (youth) start to believe in themselves. It builds confidence they didn't have before."
After the evening performance of their plays, the theatre

group engages the youth and the audience in a general discussion aimed at enabling the youths to learn even more about themselves.
One of the young actresses stated, "I never knew how Synchronicity Playmaking for Girls creative I was." Other comDirector Susie Purcell instructs youths at ments from the youth the Metro RYDC in the art of theatre included; "We feel good about ourselves even though we didn't feel good about ourselves in the beginning." One other comment added was; "I really didn't think I could do it. I didn't really believe in myself."
Synchronicity Director Rachel May says, "Seeing the kids telling their stories allows people to see them differently." She adds, "They're smart, funny and they have dreams."

DALTON RYDC RENAMED TO HONOR ELBERT SHAW JR.

"The door is open." That was the response Elbert Shaw Jr. gave a friend wanting to volunteer and serve youth at the then Dalton Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC). Shaw himself found the door was open in 1976 after accepting an invitation to begin volunteering at the facility.

After more than 30 years of ministering, counseling and volunteering his time and resources to youth who passed through the RYDC, Elbert Shaw Jr. was humbled as the facility was renamed in his honor at a dedication ceremony on April 5, 2007.

Roger Phillips, a counselor at the facility, invited Shaw to lunch at the center in 1976. Shaw told Phillips during the dedication ceremony, "You didn't know I was going to stay 31 years."

Former counselor Roger Phillips (left) and Elbert Shaw

The Georgia General Assembly passed House Resolution 21 in the 2007 session, and at the request of the resolution's sponsors, Senator Don Thomas and Representative Tom Dickson, Governor Sonny Perdue signed the measure early, just a few days prior to the scheduled dedication ceremony, allowing the dedication to proceed so Shaw's family could be on hand to enjoy the special occasion.

During the dedication Director Bobby Hughes called Elbert Shaw an "amazing man" and "one in a million" and gave accounts of how the youth at the facility interacted with Mr. Shaw. Hughes spoke of how, after hearing of the facility being renamed for Shaw, one youth approached Shaw and said to him, "Hey Mr. Shaw, you own this place, don't you?" Referring to Shaw, Hughes added, "You give from the heart, because you care."

Commissioner Albert Murray spoke of the importance and value of volunteers, calling them "priceless." Commissioner Murray added that Shaw's, "commitment, his dedication and his life works are far reaching." He continued, "There will be many other youngsters who will benefit from your service. On behalf of the Commissioner's Office and Governor Sonny Perdue, you're a good man, you're a dedicated man, an honorable man and a humble man. You'll never know the impact you have had on youngsters who have come through this facility."

Shaw was recognized during the ceremony with the Presidential Service Lifetime Award. To qualify, an individual must
10 /directions/

OPERATIONS
DALTON RYDC RENAMED TO HONOR ELBERT SHAW JR.
complete more than 4,000 hours of community service. Pat Flammini, the facility's volunteer resource coordinator, who presented the achievement to Shaw, estimated he had spent approximately 12,000 hours at the facility.

Shaw's distinguished professional career included positions in personnel and hospital administration. He retired after 24 years as a human resource manager for Shaw Industries at the age of 75.

One of the many speakers during the dedication ceremony may have summed up Shaw's commitment to the youth when he recounted a story of asking the youth at the facility about Shaw. The question to the youth was, "How do you (youth) know that Mr. Shaw loves you?" A youth answered, "Because he comes over here (the facility) and he doesn't even get paid to do it."

Speaking at the ceremony, Shaw gave credit elsewhere saying, "I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this family." He praised God saying, "He does the work and I get the joy." Shaw continues to minister, counsel and give his time to the youth at the Elbert Shaw Regional Youth Detention Center.

Pat Flammini presents Elbert Shaw with the Presidential Service Lifetime Award

SCHOOL BASED SUPERVISION SUCCESS STORIES
School-Based Supervision is working in Georgia. How do we know? The following are actual cases worked by Department of Juvenile Justice school based officers, resolving issues among Georgia's at-risk youth, before they escalate, thereby reducing the chances youth will have further involvement with DJJ and increasing chances they will remain in school. Read the following real success stories. Some information has been removed or changed in order to protect the confidentiality of youth involved. All names of students have been changed to ensure confidentiality.

Working to resolve it
Early in the school year, it was reported that Mary committed simple assault against Karen on the school bus. The DJJ school based officer talked with the assistant principal concerning the incident and was advised that Mary had been suspended off of the bus for three days according to school policy. Karen's family believed the disciplinary action lenient. They reacted negatively toward school officials and filed a complaint alleging simple assault. Upon meeting with the parents at the school, the DJJ officer learned there had been on-going problems between the two students for quite some time and it had evolved into a feud between both families. The DJJ officer explained Balanced and Restorative Justice (BARJ) to both families and asked all involved to participate in a group conference in hopes of resolving the issue and repairing the harm. The conference was held. Present at the conference were the students' parents, the school's assistant principal, the bus driver, the assistant superintendent of the board of education, the school's transportation director, and the DJJ officer. The conference was a success. Everyone had an opportunity to address the incident from their perspective. Mary apologized for her actions. The families agreed that both students needed to respect one another. The families made peace, and Karen's parents apologized to the school for the way they reacted to the disciplinary actions of the school. Karen's family requested the complaint be dismissed. Mary was placed on a behavior contract, which she completed with no additional problems or violations.

Early Intervention
The DJJ school based officer received a call from the school resource officer advising the DJJ officer of a report that two male students, Ken and Derrick, were being accused of inappropriate behavior, possibly criminal acts, involving three female students, Kelly, Kristi and Samantha. Possible suspensions were being considered until a hearing could be held along with a complaint being filed with the Department of Juvenile Justice. Parents arrived and Kristi's father expressed to the principal that he expected the boys to be prosecuted, and he wanted them placed out of the school. He was angry and demanding. The DJJ officer spoke with the students and their parents. Both boys stated this had been going on since the beginning of school and the girls consented to their actions. The boys expressed that the accusation came about as revenge due to a non-related situation. (continued on next page)

11 /directions/

Directions
Sonny Perdue Governor
DJJ BOARD
J. Daniel Shuman Chair
Edwin A. Risler Vice-Chair
Daniel Augustus Menefee Secretary
Larry Barnes Michael Lee Baugh
Bruce Garraway Van Ross Herrin James P. Kelly III Elizabeth Green Lindsey William "Bill" McQueen
Judy Mecum Dexter Rowland Sandra Heath Taylor
DJJ ADVISORY BOARD The Honorable Quintress J. Gilbert
The Honorable Steven C. Teske
Commissioner: Albert Murray
Editor-in-Chief: Steve Hayes
Writing Staff: Steve Hayes Nathan Cain
Editing Team: Nathan Cain
Janssen Robinson Lena Wilson
Ra'Chel Fowler
Publisher: American Solutions for Business
Please direct comments or questions to:
Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice Office of Public Affairs
3408 Covington Highway Decatur, Georgia 30032 Telephone: (404) 508 -7147 Facsimile: (404) 508 -7341 Website: www.djj.state.ga.us

T he mission of the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is to protect and serve the citizens of Georgia by holding youthful offenders accountable for their actions through the delivery of treatment services and sanctions in appropriate settings, and by establishing youth in their communities as productive and law abiding citizens.
OPERATIONS
SCHOOL BASED SUPERVISION SUCCESS STORIES
The DJJ officer then discussed Balanced and Restorative Justice with the students' parents and asked if all would be willing to participate in a conference, to which they all agreed.
A group conference with the parents, school officials and resource officer was conducted. The conference excluded the students due to inconsistencies in their stories. Respect and order were emphasized as the meeting proceeded. The conference was a great success. Many points were brought out, including that the boys acted inappropriately. It was also agreed to that the girls were wrong if they had consented and failed to report earlier incidents. It was agreed that the girls could have been using their accusation as means of revenge. At a parent's suggestion the students were separated and would no longer have classes together. At the request of the parents, all students were counseled concerning their actions and warned of serious consequences should anything further develop including inappropriate behavior or possible false accusations. The principal called for a complaint to be filed on the boys with the Department of Juvenile Justice. However, Kristi's father, previously upset and demanding, expressed that a complaint wasn't necessary and that separating the boys and girls would repair the harm. The DJJ officer counseled the students and they were separated at school. No additional problems have occurred with the students. No complaints were filed with DJJ. The male students were not suspended, but were firmly warned of consequences if they acted in such a way again.
School Based Supervision began in Georgia in one school in early 2006. DJJ juvenile probation/parole specialists are assigned caseloads and spend part of their work hours meeting the needs of youth in the school settings. Today, with the support of school officials, the program is now in more than 80 high schools and middle schools in Georgia. These success stories would, of course, not be possible if not for the dedicated DJJ staff, school personnel and others who see the possibilities. Though the officers are not identified due to confidentiality concerning the youth involved, these officers are providing a caring and extremely important service to Georgia.
"School Based Supervision is an excellent example of our staff finding a local solution to improve case management and new opportunities for partnership with the school system that works for all parties."-Deputy
Commissioner of Operations Rob Rosenbloom

12 /directions/