Directions: a publication of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Vol. 14, no. 3 (Fall 2008)

Directions

D A publication
of the Georgia

epartment of Juvenile Justice

Volume XIV, Issue No. 3 Fall 2008

COMMISSIONER'S CORNER

EXCELLENT SERVICE SHOULD BE NOTED

Often we do not have the time or take the time to say, "thank you." Therefore I would like to dedicate this space to those DJJ employees who go about their business, completing their tasks and job responsibilities and whose actions make a positive difference in the lives of the youth under our supervision. I'm speaking of the more than 4,700 DJJ employees who have chosen to work for this fine agency.

Regardless of whether our employees are direct care staff, all staff working for DJJ make a difference if they do their jobs well, and that good effort should be recognized. Yet all too often the appropriate attention isn't drawn to it. That could be a result of the busy schedules we all keep, or perhaps their actions go unnoticed because they are not glamorous enough to grab a headline.

Commissioner Albert Murray

Take, for example, the work of Curtis Davison, Lead Teacher, and Kinsey Solomon, Assistant Director, Community Services & Intake, at the Marietta RYDC. These two employees recently went the extra mile to ensure a youth at the facility was able to work toward obtaining a final high school credit needed for graduation. The process isn't as easy as it may sound. It took a lot of work and a great deal of flexibility. The youth worried she wouldn't be able to get her diploma, which would have barred her from attending college. Many youth leave our facilities and go on to college as a result of their persistence and that of our staff. The success story of Jeremy Lee is highlighted later in this newsletter (page 10).

Another example of our excellent staff is Keisha Stanley, a JPPS who stood watch over a youth at a hospital, after hours, to ensure the youth was not left alone while receiving treatment. You might recall Ms. Stanley being recognized in a previous "Directions" edition. Also let's not forget Program Assistant Lorie Gann, who was recently honored by the Governor's Office of Customer Service for her excellent work (page 11). There are many similar examples throughout our agency.

Correctional systems or even facilities are a community, and anything that takes place in any community in the country can happen in DJJ. This includes both the positives and the negatives, negatives such as someone breaking the law. We hope that won't happen, and we take all precautions possible. However, just like in all segments of society, when this occurs it should be dealt with accordingly in the criminal justice system. Yet the actions of a few or even one should never stand for or represent the many hardworking law abiding DJJ employees who have as their first priority helping our youth make positive choices.

We cannot foresee the future, and despite all good safeguards in place and best practices utilized, something negative or even illegal can occur. If it does, I assure you my response will be to ensure the law is followed, consequences result, and steps are taken to hopefully eliminate a repeat.

We must do whatever is necessary to ensure the safety of the public and that of the youth under our care, and I want to thank the hardworking employees of DJJ, like Davison, Solomon and Stanley, and the many others who strive for excellence each and every day. Again, THANK YOU! -Commissioner Albert Murray

AROUND DJJ

TOP DJJ MANAGERS GRADUATE FROM EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Four DJJ executive leaders par-

riculum for the week includ-

ticipated in the Georgia Leader-

ed a 360 degree leadership

ship Institute's Executive Lead-

assessment, creation of a

ership Program (ELP) this year.

personal leadership devel-

The hard work culminated in a

opment plan and training on

graduation ceremony on August

motivating employees while

8, 2008 at the Floyd Veterans

building teamwork among

Memorial Building in Atlanta.

co-workers. An added piece

Spiro Amburn, director of Leg-

focused on providing excel-

islative Services; Steve Hayes,

lent customer service and

director of Media & Public Rela-

was presented by the Gov-

tions; Steve Herndon, deputy

ernor's Office of Customer

commissioner of Programs and

Service.

Secure Campuses and Diana

Newell, assistant deputy com-

"The program enables you

missioner of Community Servic-

to look very closely at your-

es and Intake all completed the Steve Herndon, Steve Hayes, Dr. Tom Coleman, Georgia COO self and identify areas of

program, which is open to leaders of state agencies and their

Jim Lientz, Diana Newell, Assistant Commissioner of the State Personnel Administration Ron Schultis, and Spiro Amburn

your leadership and management skills that you can

executive staff. The week long training is Perdue's goal of making Georgia the work to improve upon," Hayes said.

geared toward the continued development of leadership competencies and skills for the participants.

best managed state in the nation is achieved.
The week of training, held April 20 24,

Newell added, "As a newcomer to Georgia government, I could not have benefited more by participating in anything

The broader goal of the Georgia Leader- 2008, was conducted by the Carl Vinson other than this program. It will certainly

ship Institute is to build the bench Institute of Government at the Universi- assist me as I work to the betterment of

strength of Georgia government leaders ty of Georgia in cooperation with the the youth under our care and supervi-

for the future, ensuring Governor Sonny State Personnel Administration. ELP cur- sion."

MURRAY BECOMES LONGEST SERVING COMMISSIONER

Albert Murray became the Georgia Department of

six years of service. Prior to his Kansas service,

Juvenile Justice's longest serving Commis-

Commissioner Murray worked for 27

sioner in July of 2008 with four years

years serving youth in Ten-

and four months of service.

nessee. The last 16 years

Governor Sonny Perdue

he served as assistant

appointed Commissioner

commissioner for both

Murray in January

the Department of

2004.

Childrens Services

In the 16 year history of the agency, there have been six

and the Department of Youth Development.

other commissioners.

Commissioner Murray

Commissioner Murray, when

appointed, brought more than 30

years of experience to Georgia, includ-

ing serving as the state of Kansas'

first juvenile justice commissioner. Governor Sonny Perdue swears in Albert Murray

He remains that state's longest as the seventh Commissioner of the Department

serving commissioner with almost

of Juvenile Justice.

says his goals for DJJ include closing out the long standing oversight of the agency by the U.S. Department of Justice. He added his motivation for public service came from educators who taught him the meaning and value of "service."

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BOARD NOTES
DJJ BOARD TAKES MEETINGS ON THE ROAD
During the summer, the DJJ Board took a break from their routine and moved two of their monthly meetings from the Department's Decatur headquarters to points south.

In June, the Board met in Savannah. The meeting was held to coincide with annual training for school board members presented by the Georgia School Boards Association. The Department of Juvenile Justice is Georgia's 181st school district and all board members are also school board members required by law to attend annual training.

At the meeting, the Board heard a special presentation from
Region V staff, who focused on their ongoing efforts to reach
youth in the community and help keep them out of DJJ facilities. Savannah Mayor Otis Johnson and Chatham County Board of Unit Manager Steve Dupree (left) talks to DJJ staff durCommissioners Chairman Pete Liakakis attended the meeting. ing a tour of the Georgia State Prison in Reidsville.

In July, the board meeting was moved to Reidsville, where the Board was the guest of Warden Dan Upton of the Georgia State Prison.The night before the meeting, board members attended a gathering hosted by Board Chairman Daniel Shuman and his wife Eva Lou, who reside in Reidsville. The board meeting was preceded by a tour of the Georgia State Prison.

"Our visit to the Georgia State Prison gave the Board an opportunity to see the other end of the correctional system," said Commissioner Albert Murray. "Everything the Department of Juvenile Justice does is focused on making sure young people change course before they end up in one of our state prisons."

Commissioner Murray also said that Warden Upton and his staff were hardworking and gracious hosts. "I would like to extend my thanks to the warden and everyone else who made our visit such a pleasant experience," he said.

STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS

PROMOTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

Patsy English has been selected as the Region III Administrative Operations Manager. English has been employed by the state for 28 years and has been with DJJ since 1994. She has held the positions of Secretary I in the Henry County Operations Office, Secretary II in the Fayette County Operations Office, and Administrative Operations Coordinator for the District 3A Office.
Cynthia Wood has been selected as the new District Director for District 11. Wood has been employed with the Department since 1984. She has held the positions of Court Service Worker (JPPS), Court Service Worker, Sr. (JPPS III), Juvenile Program Manager, and Assistant District Director. She most recently served as a Program Coordinator in the Operations Division at DJJ Central Office.
Jerome R. Parkinson, II has been selected as an Assistant Director for the Macon RYDC. Parkinson was formerly employed with the District of Columbia's Youth Services Administration. He has a bachelor's degree in business

administration from the University of Liberia and another bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of the District of Columbia. Parkinson brings 17 years of experience to the position.
Victor Roberts has been selected as the Regional Administrator for Region III. Roberts began his juvenile justice career in South Carolina in 1986. He came to Georgia in 1997 as a JPPS II. He has served as a JPPS III, a JPM, Federal Programs Manager, Assistant Office Director, and most recently the District Director in District 3A.
Deborah Moore has been selected as Director of Human Resources in the Division of Administrative Services. Moore has 22 years experience working in human resource administration. Prior to joining the Department, Moore served as HR Director with the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. She has a master's degree in public administration from Columbus State University.

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STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS

COLEMAN RETIRES, IS SUCCEEDED BY HERNDON

AFTER 13 YEARS of loyal service to the Department of Juvenile Justice and 17 years of service to the state of Georgia, Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Secure Campuses Dr. Thomas Coleman retired at the end of September. Prior to coming to DJJ, Dr. Coleman served as the director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety.

said Dr. Coleman has done a great deal to help shape the Department of Juvenile Justice into the agency it is today.
Commissioner Murray presented Dr. Coleman with a proclamation from Governor Sonny Perdue honoring his
years of service.

Dr. Coleman was honored along with Education Director Dr. Tom O'Rourke, who also recently retired, at a reception after the September

"Tom Coleman has done a great deal to help move this agency forward," Commissioner Murray said. "His leadership and counsel have been invaluable. He will truly be missed."

meeting of the Board of Juvenile Justice. Many colleagues, past and present, turned out to honor both men.

Long-time Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Secure Campuses Steve Herndon has succeeded Coleman as Deputy Commissioner. Herndon has worked in juvenile corrections since 1977. He has served

Dr. Coleman said working for DJJ has been one of the best experiences of his life.

as crisis counselor, Regional Youth

Detention Center director, court

Dr. Tom Coleman (left) and Steve Herndon

service worker, deputy division director, and in numerous other lead-

ership roles, including his most recent position of assistant

deputy commissioner. Herndon has a master's degree in

"It's been the most rewarding experience I've ever had," he public administration from the University of Georgia.

said. "I've seen change made."

"Steve will be a welcome member to DJJ's executive team

Commissioner Albert Murray said that Dr. Coleman was not and will serve DJJ and the state of Georgia extremely well,"

only a valued colleague but also a good friend. He also said Commissioner Murray.

NEW LEGAL DIRECTOR BRINGS YEARS WEST APPOINTED ASSISTANT DEPUTY OF PUBLIC SAFETY EXPERIENCE TO DJJ COMMISSIONER FOR CSI DIVISION

Bill Amideo has been selected as

Chris West has been selected as

director of Legal Services. He has

the new assistant deputy commis-

over 23 years experience in public

sioner in the Division of Community

safety law. Prior to coming to DJJ,

Services and Intake.

Amideo served as general counsel

for the Georgia Department of Correc-

He will assume the duties that were

tions for nearly nine years. Prior to

previously held by Jim Frazier,

working for DOC, he served as direc-

including the supervision of the divi-

tor of legal services for the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Bill Amideo

Chris West

sion's regional administrators. West has worked for the Department of

Amideo also spent 11 years working as an assistant attorney Juvenile Justice his entire career, which began in 1974

general for the State Law Department.

when he started at the Marietta Regional Youth Detention

Center (RYDC) as a JCO 1.

Before coming to Georgia, Amideo served as chief assistant

district attorney in San Mateo County, California and was a West has held many other positions, including JPPS II,

member of the Board of Directors of the California District JPPS III, juvenile program manager, and district director.

Attorneys Association. He received his bachelor's and law He has served as regional administrator for Region One

degrees from the University of Illinois.

since 2003.

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STAFF APPOINTMENTS AND RECOGNITIONS
CATRETT TAKES HELM OF DJJ EDUCATION AS O'ROURKE RETIRES
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Dr. Tom O'Rourke retired at the end of September after 10 years of service to DJJ.

Before coming to DJJ, Dr. O'Rourke spent 31 years with the

DeKalb County School System, leaving as the associate superin-

tendent for educational services. Dr. O'Rourke was instrumental in

turning the Department's school system into the nationally

admired operation it is today. He oversaw the Department's efforts

to comply with the education portion of the Memorandum of

Agreement. DJJ was released from the education portion of the

agreement in 2003 when federal monitors found the agency had

created "an exceptional education system for detained juveniles."

Dr. O'Rourke also spearheaded the Department's successful

efforts to have its school system accredited by the Southern

Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Commissioner Albert Murray (right) presents Dr. Tom

O'Rourke with a token of appreciation for his ten years of

"Without Tom O'Rourke's leadership dedicated service to DJJ.

over the last ten years DJJ's educa-

tion program would not be what it is now, which is one of the top programs of its kind in the

nation," said Commissioner Albert Murray. "He will be missed."

Dr. O'Rourke has been succeeded in his position by Dr. Jack Catrett, who previously served as director of special education. Dr. Catrett has been with DJJ for 12 years and has played a key role in the development of the educational program which meets all federal and state guidelines as well as the SACS accreditation standards.

Dr. Jack Catrett

In addition to serving as director of special education, Dr. Catrett has served as a teacher and

regional principal. He has been instrumental in the development of the Teacher Certification

Program, the DJJ curriculum, the Alternative Education Placement Behavior Management System, and the DJJ training mod-

ules. As the director of special education, he has provided oversight for a quality special education program which provides

services to close to 40 percent of the DJJ student population.

"We all know that Tom O'Rourke can't be replaced," Murray said. "But Jack Catrett is definitely the right person to lead our education department to continue to capitalize and expand on the great strides we have made over the last decade."

BEDARIUS BELL RETIRES AS HEAD OF THE GWINNETT RYDC

Bedarius Bell, long-time director of the

who were treated to a meal of

Gwinnett Regional Youth Detention

ribs, chicken, hot dogs, and ham-

Center (RYDC), retired on July 31,

burgers. Many present and past

after 15 years with DJJ.

DJJ employees turned out to

wish him well.

Bell spent 21 years as an industrial engineer for Johnson & Johnson before beginning a second career in juvenile corrections as a teacher at the Gainesville RYDC. He directed the Gwinnett RYDC for 11 years. Instead

Bell said he was sad to be leaving the facility and that he would miss both the staff, whom he said were the best anyone could ask for, and the kids.

of a retirement party, Bell requested a Bedarius Bell speaks to youths at the Gwinnett "Over the years I found I love my

barbecue for the youths at the facility, RYDC while they enjoy a meal.

job," he said.

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STAFF APPOINTMENTS & RECOGNITIONS

CLAIBORNE RETIRES AS DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Janie Claiborne, deputy director of Human Resources, retired at the end of September with 33 years of service to the state of Georgia.

Claiborne began her public service career with the Department of Corrections in 1975

in the Data Collection Section. She soon moved to DOC's Office of Human Resources

and spent the next 20 years working for DOC. In 2001, after spending eight years as

the director of human resources and organizational development in the Division of Reha-

bilitation Services, Claiborne came to the Department of Juvenile Justice as the

classification and compensation manager. She became deputy director of the Office of

Human Resources in 2004, and she served as acting director of Human Resources start- Commissioner Albert Murray

ing in 2007.

(right) presents Janie Claiborne

with a token of appreciation for her "Janie has been an asset to the Department," said Deputy Commissioner of Administra- years of service.

tive Services Amy Howell. "Her diligence has contributed to DJJ's success in recruiting

and keeping many quality employees."

ANNIE RETIRES WITH 34 YEARS OF SERVICE

Annie Williams, administrative assistant in the Office of Programs and Secure Campuses, retired at the end of September with 34 years of service to the state of Georgia. Williams began her career in 1974, working as a clerk/typist in the Child Support Recovery Division of the Department of Human Resources. She spent 23 years with DHR before moving to the Secretary of

Annie Williams with Gordon Fisher

State's office in 1998. In 1999, Williams came to the Department of Juvenile Justice. She first worked in the Office of Classification and Transportation (OCATS) before transferring to Campus Operations within the Division of Programs and Secure Campuses where she worked for Assistant Deputy Commissioner Gordon Fisher.

PROGRAMS AND SECURE CAMPUSES
DJJ PARTICIPATES IN NATIONAL SURVEY OF YOUTH IN CUSTODY

As part of an ongoing commitment to the safety of youth in DJJ facilities, the Department of Juvenile Justice opened its doors to researchers for the National Survey of Youth in Custody (NSYC) in August.
Researchers from Westat, working for the Federal Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), visited five of Georgia's eight Youth Development Campuses (YDCs) to interview youths about their experiences. The purpose of the research is to identify a national benchmark on a broad range of topics such as the reasons for youth incarceration, attitudes about the conditions of confinement, health related issues, substance abuse history, and sexual experiences within facilities. The US Attorney General will use the information to help create standards related to youth incarceration, including the prevention, detection and response to sexual incidents that may occur in juvenile correctional facilities. The research is

being conducted pursuant to the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), which was passed into law in 2003.
Researchers visited the Augusta, Eastman, Bill Ireland, Macon and Sumter YDCs, where they conducted the survey in private.Youths who consented to participate in the survey were asked to answer a series of questions on a laptop computer. At the Augusta, Macon and Sumter facilities research staff attempted to interview all eligible youth. At the Eastman and Bill Ireland YDCs, which both have 300 beds, researchers were presented with a list of eligible youth and interviewed a random sample drawn from that list.
Preparation for the survey began a year before the researchers' arrival when DJJ Commissioner Albert Murray attended NSYC training in Washington D.C. When he returned from training, Commissioner (continued on next page)

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PROGRAMS AND SECURE CAMPUSES
NATIONAL SURVEY OF YOUTH IN CUSTODY CONTINUED
Murray appointed then Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Secure Campuses Steve Herndon to oversee the preparation for and execution of the survey. Herndon, who has since been promoted to deputy commissioner, said the NSYC is one of the first real effects of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).

"It's good that they're taking a wide national sample," Herndon said. "This information will provide a benchmark that will allow us to see how we are doing in meeting the goals of PREA."

DJJ INTRODUCES HOLISTIC SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PROGRAM

In collaboration with the Georgia Department of Human begin their program by attending Seven Challenges groups and Resources, the Department of Juvenile Justice has implement- individual counseling sessions according to their needs and will

ed The Seven Challenges Substance Abuse Treatment Program work on their substance abuse issues at their own pace. Each

in its Youth Development Campuses (YDCs). The Seven Chal- youth is expected to work on Seven Challenges journals dur-

lenges approach is a

ing their involvement

holistic program for working with adolescents on

The Seven Challenges

in the program, but should the youth not

their drug problems and WE DECIDED TO OPEN UP AND TALK HONESTLY ABOUT OURSELVES complete the whole

on co-occurring problems and for remediating life

AND ABOUT ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS.

program, he or she can continue treat-

skills deficits. The intent is

ment in the commu-

to establish a seamless WE LOOKED AT WHAT WE LIKED ABOUT ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS, nity.

system of care for youth AND WHY WE WERE USING THEM.

who begin their alcohol

Since December

and drug treatment in a WE LOOKED AT OUR USE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS TO SEE IF 2007, the Office of

secure setting like a Youth Development Campus

IT HAS CAUSED HARM OR COULD CAUSE HARM.

Behavioral Health has trained over 80

(YDC) who later remain

DJJ staff members to

vulnerable for relapse and WE LOOKED AT OUR RESPONSIBILITY AND THE RESPONSIBILITY OF provide and super-

recidivism while transition- OTHERS FOR OUR PROBLEMS.

vise the model in

ing back into the commu-

YDCs. Over the com-

nity. Working with the WE THOUGHT ABOUT WHERE WE SEEMED TO BE HEADED, WHERE WE ing months, it is the

Department of Human Resources (DHR) will

WANTED TO GO, AND WHAT WE WANTED TO ACCOMPLISH.

Department's intent to present the Seven

ensure that youth will be

Challenges approach

able to continue their sub- WE MADE THOUGHTFUL DECISIONS ABOUT OUR LIVES AND ABOUT and announce to the

stance abuse treatment in OUR USE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS.

community and to our

the community once they

referral sources that

are released from the WE FOLLOWED THROUGH ON OUR DECISIONS ABOUT OUR LIVES AND we are a licensed

facility.

DRUG USE. IF WE SAW PROBLEMS, WE WENT BACK TO EARLIER CHAL-

provider. It is also our goal that each YDC

DHR has recently desig- LENGES AND MASTERED THEM.

staff member has an

nated Seven Challenges

understanding of The

as a best practice model

Seven Challenges

funded by DHR dollars. Funding through established commu- Program, so we can represent it well to our clients, the commu-

nity sources will ensure that each youth referred to a Seven nity, parents, and referral sources.

Challenges group in the community will get the needed serv-

ices based on their enrollment in the program.

Should you have any questions regarding The Seven Chal-

lenges Program refer to the Seven Challenges website at

All youth enrolled in YDCs will receive The Seven Challenges www.sevenchallenges.com or contact Dr. Jody Tarleton or

Program through Substance Abuse Treatment Units and Gen- Miguel Fernandez in the Office of Behavioral Health Services

eral Population Treatment and Intervention Groups. Youth will at (404) 508-6508.

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PROGRAMS AND SECURE CAMPUSES
DJJ AND GEORGIA STATE PARTNER FOR UNIQUE LITERACY STUDY

THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT of Juvenile Justice, in partnership with Georgia State University (GSU), has undertaken a one-of-a-kind study to find the best way to improve the reading skills of incarcerated youth throughout the nation.
Funded by a $2.9 million grant from the United States Department of Education, Project LIBERATE (Literacy Instruction Based on Evidence through Research for Adjudicated Teens to Excel), is a four-year longitudinal study being conducted by DJJ and Georgia State University's Department of Educational Psychology and Special Education. The purpose of the study is to find a national model for teaching literacy skills to middle school aged children in a juvenile justice setting. The grant, which comes from the Institute of Education Science (IES), an office within the United States Department of Education, is the only one of its kind in the nation. The research will be conducted at the Bill Ireland Youth Development Campus (YDC) in Milledgeville.
Director of Education Dr. Jack Catrett said DJJ's education program, which is accredited by the Southern Associa-

tion of Colleges and Schools (SACS), has an excellent reputation and that being awarded such a prestigious grant speaks well of the state of the agency.
"It's an honor for us to be chosen to do this," he said.
Dr. Catrett said reading, writing and spelling are essential skills youth must have if they are going to be successful after they are released from the juvenile justice system. Teaching these skills is a challenge because youth who come into the system have already fallen behind academically. Conducting the study inside a YDC is an advantage because it will allow researchers to determine what works best in a real correctional setting.
"When they come to us, most of these kids are two years behind in grade level and reading level," Catrett said.
Dr. David Houchins, associate professor of special education at GSU, and the chief investigator for the project, said the Project LIBERATE grant builds on ongoing collaboration between GSU and DJJ. Previous reading education studies have been

conducted at the Sumter and Bill Ireland YDCs. Those collaborations paved the way for the present study.
"Those initial collaboration successes have allowed us to be able to compete nationally for an IES grant," Houchins said.
Dr. Houchins said the target population for the study is youth up to 16 years old who are not reading at their grade level. The study will include about 150 youths each year, and they will receive two periods a day of reading and language arts instruction.
Dr. Catrett said that the youths will be divided into five different study groups based on age and ability, and they will be taught with different methods and closely monitored during the course of the study. The study will include youth in special education, who comprise about 40 percent of the Department's students.
"It's quite an undertaking because it involves five teachers and five aides," Catrett said.

DJJ EMPLOYEES ATTEND NATIONAL GANG SYMPOSIUM

Thirteen DJJ employees attended the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) National Youth Gang Symposium, which was held in downtown Atlanta June 23-25, 2008.

The symposium, which was co-sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club of Atlanta, featured many workshops and sessions designed to educate corrections professionals and others who work daily with youths on the latest trends in gang culture and how to work with those youths to try and combat the negative influence of gangs on young people.

LaShonda Williams, a program coordinator at the Sumter Youth Development Campus (YDC), said she found the symposium informative and was impressed with a session she attended on the history and influence of gangster rap.
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DJJ staff at the OJJDP Gang Symposium

PROGRAMS AND SECURE CAMPUSES
NEW UGA FACULTY VISIT MUSCOGEE YDC
Forty new University of Georgia faculty members took part in a question and answer session and tour of the Muscogee Youth Development Campus (YDC) as part of a larger tour of the state sponsored by UGA's Carl Vinson Institute of Government.
The aim of the annual tour, said Harry Hayes, local government project director at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, is to acquaint new faculty members with the different communities, industries, and aspects of government within the state. The tour also included stops in such far-flung locales as Tifton, Augusta, Brunswick and Savannah.
The tour has been coming to the Macon Capt. Marvin Menafee leads a tour of new UGA faculty members through the YDC, DJJ's long-term facility for Muscogee YDC. females, for several years, but came to the Muscogee YDC this year to see the Department's newest, most innovative facility, said Karen Baynes, associate director of the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and a former juvenile court judge.
The Muscogee YDC houses 60 male youths, all of whom are in a YDC for the first time. The facility uses a "cottage culture." The goal of the facility is to create a familial village atmosphere where youths learn to share ideas, values, ways of problem solving, and rules for living that foster a positive environment for changing behavior.
Board members Dan Menefee and Dr. Ed Risler both addressed the tour group. Menefee, who is from Columbus, is board secretary. Risler, who is a faculty member at the UGA School of Social Work, is vice-chairman. Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Secure Campuses Dr. Thomas Coleman also addressed the group, as did many staff members from the Muscogee facility.
Dr. Coleman told the new faculty members that the Department's emphasis is on helping young people, not punishing them, and giving them the skills they will need to succeed in adult life.
"If we don't give kids something to help them resist those temptations (in the outside world) they might come right back," he said.
The tour group also heard from a youth at the facility who works with the PAWS Columbus program, an animal rescue group that brings dogs to the Dan Menefee, secretary of the Board of Juvenile Muscogee YDC so that youth can train them. The youth told the group that Justice, tells new UGA faculty about the agency's working with the program had taught him responsibility and patience. mission. "I think about more stuff before I actually act on it," he said.
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PROGRAMS AND SECURE CAMPUSES
FROM A YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CAMPUS TO A COLLEGE CAMPUS

-- One Young Man's Success Story --
When Jeremy Lee was sent to the Bill E. Ireland Youth Development Campus (YDC) in Milledgeville three years ago he could have seen it as a dead end. Instead, he saw an opportunity.
Now 17, Lee is on the road to success. When his placement was completed, Lee walked out of the Bill Ireland gates with a high school diploma, a perfect score on the writing portion of the SAT, and a full scholarship to Morehouse College in Atlanta. In September, Lee, a resident of Clayton County, came to DJJ's Decatur headquarters for a private meeting with Commissioner Albert Murray and to talk to the Board of Juvenile Justice about his experiences and future plans.
"Three years ago I would have never seen myself in a position like this now," Lee told the board.
Lee said being sent to Bill Ireland helped him realize what he really wanted to do with his life. The staff there supported him and encouraged him to work toward his high school diploma and think about his future. Lee demonstrated that he has taken the advice and counseling he has received over the last few years to heart.
"I will be a doctor one day," said Lee, who plans to major in biology when he starts school in January.
Ronnie Richardson, director of the Bill Ireland YDC, said Lee was an inspiration because he did not let one bad decision define the rest of his life, and he took full advantage of the programs, services, resources and support system offered to him in the facility.
"Jeremy is a youth who saw his situation as a temporary setback," Richardson said.
Lee's mother, Pamela Leverett, said that her son received excellent mentoring from DJJ staff. As a single mother, Leverett said, there was only so much she could do because boys need the guidance of older men to set them on the right path. Leverett said that, both Jeremy, and his brother, who also spent time in a YDC, benefited from the attention they received.
"There were some wonderful men who really, really, really, took time and took an interest in them and really made a difference," she said.
Lee said that, even though the entire experience was a trying one, it helped shape him and teach him the responsibility and discipline necessary to succeed in the adult world.
"Even though it was a really bad situation, I really grew from it," Lee said.
"Jeremy has a bright future ahead of him," said Commissioner Albert Murray. "I'm certain he will be successful in school and in life."
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Jeremy Lee

CUSTOMER SERVICE

GANN RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENT SERVICE

The Nomination

LORIE, LORIE, LORIE! Lorie In announcing Lorie as an

Over the past several years, Lorie Gann has become a shining example of the perfect state employee. When the state of Georgia initiated the customer service program, Ms. Gann took upon herself

Gann is the Program Assistant in the Carroll County Court Services Office. She was announced as a winner of

award recipient, she was recognized in part for creating several initiatives within the local office to help speed up
the intake process for new

to learn the new policies and has been utilizing these skills to better serve our clients and co-workers. These skills are not limited to

clients (youth intake). Lorie believes communication,
being able to talk with someone, is key to providing good customer service.

just our office.

During this time, Ms. Gann has gone outside of our office to develop a better

Governor Perdue presented the awards. "Part of making Georgia the best man-

working relationship with our collaborative partners, juvenile court, law enforcement, and other DJJ offices. She

(L to R) DJJ Commissioner Albert Murray, Lorie Gann, Governor Sonny Perdue and Bryan Gann

aged state is improving customer service and recognizing those employees who serve as a shining

always greets each client with a smile and treats each of them with respect. She provides many services for our clients that are outside of her documented job responsibilities.
Ms. Gann has developed a strong relationship with the business community in Carrollton, who in turn donates goods and services to our clients and their families. These businesses provide everything from food and clothing to school supplies for these underprivileged youth.
Although her actual job responsibilities focus only on clerical duties, Ms. Gann has demonstrated a deep concern for the well-being and success of our clients. The results of these actions can be seen when a family comes into our office and they make it a point to speak to Ms. Gann because of her actions and pleas-

a "Governor's Award for Individual Customer Service Excellence" at Team Georgia's Second Annual Governor's Customer Service Awards, October 8th.
Lorie was one of only 16 award recipients recognized at the event held at the Georgia World Congress Center. The annual awards garnered 636 nominations from 49 agencies statewide. Lorie says she was very surprised.

example," said Governor Perdue.
Gann's nomination was one of 17 forwarded by DJJ to the Governor's Office of Customer Service for consideration.
Commissioner Albert Murray stated, "We have so many deserving employees and I am especially proud of Ms. Gann for her commitment to providing quality customer service."

ant nature.
Although she does not provide actual case management to our clients, her focus on customer service has a great impact on the youth's success while on probation. Ms. Gann is a leader in the area of customer service and a true role model for the state of Georgia.

"I can honestly say this is awesome!"
She met Governor Sonny Perdue, whom she described as "down to earth." Lorie's husband, daughter, mother and grandmother surprised her by attending the event. "Without

Lorie was nominated by Bill Spears, Juvenile Program Manager in Carroll County.
Take part in DJJ's Customer Service Recognition Program. Nominate a DJJ employee at www.djj.state.ga.us

a doubt, this was a very well

kept secret," says Lorie.

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Directions
Sonny Perdue Governor
DJJ BOARD
J. Daniel Shuman Chair
Dr. 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 Perry J. McGuire
Judy Mecum Dexter Rowland Stephen K. Simpson Elaine P. Snow Sandra Heath Taylor
DJJ ADVISORY COUNCIL 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
Publisher: Printed Communications, Inc.
Please direct comments or questions to:
Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice Office of Media and Public Relations 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.

COMMUNITY SERVICES AND INTAKE STOPPING THE PRISON PIPELINE

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF COMMUNITY SERVICES AND INTAKE Rob Rosenbloom, Legislative Director Spiro Amburn and Board of Juvenile Justice Vice-Chairman Dr. Ed Risler all participated in The Prison Pipeline: The Intersection of Childhood and the Criminal Justice System, a conference sponsored by the Child and Family Policy Initiative. The Child and Family Policy Initiative is part of the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia. The conference, held on Oct. 13, 2008, brought together researchers, practitioners and students for a discussion on how to stem the flow of children into the prison system.

Dr. Risler and Rosenbloom gave a presentation on DJJ's School Based Supervision program, which is now in more than 100 schools in Georgia. The program puts a juvenile probation officer in schools to supervise children. The program results in more contact with youth, better monitoring and an improved focus on academic success.

"Essentially the whole goal is putting out little embers before they burst into big fires," Dr. Risler told the conference attendees.

Rosenbloom pointed out that the

program is successful, resulting in a

significant decrease in disciplinary

problems. DJJ's data shows a 42

percent reduction in tardiness, a 67

percent reduction in truancy and a

36 percent reduction in disciplinary

Deputy Commissioner Rob Rosenbloom reports for youth participating in explains School Based Supervision at the School Based Supervision for the

Prison Pipeline Conference.

2007-2008 school year.

Amburn gave an overview of the agency during his presentation and spoke about legislative issues as well as the agency's growing population projections. Reducing the Short Term Program (STP) sentence from 90 to 60 days in 2005 helped to slow the influx of status offenders and misdemeanants into secure facilities, Amburn said, but that is only a temporary fix as the state's population continues to grow.

Amburn said the agency has been working with juvenile court judges to come to an agreement on legislation requiring the use of a risk assessment instrument in all juvenile courts to help judges in making placements for secure detention. There was a good policy discussion regarding this proposal during the last legislative session, and the bill may return during the next legislative session, Amburn added.
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