FYI @ DJJ: the official online newsletter of the Department of Juvenile Justice [2014]

DJJ Public Employee Recognition Week and Above & Beyond Awards
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Summer/Fall 2014

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DJJ Public Employee Recognition Week and Above & Beyond Awards

Working for the Department of Juvenile Justice is an exciting career choice for individuals with the drive, determination, and passion to improve the lives of the youth in our care.

In our Employee showcase, Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the DJJ Leadership Team want to recognize staff members who have been recently honored for awards during Georgia Public Employee Recognition Week and the latest Above and Beyond Award Ceremony.
Commissioner Niles says, "Leadership in a juvenile justice career means keeping your moral compass on a true heading - Not just doing things right, but doing the right thing. From the moment new Correctional Officers put on their uniforms here, we urge them not only to look for ways to make the grade, but for ways to make a difference."
The Commissioner is pleased to announce this new online feature of the DJJ Newsletter, designed to welcome and congratulate those who strive to make DJJ a better work place every day. He sends these words of encouragement and appreciation to personally thank each of you for your commitment to this department and to those we serve.

Matthew Montgomery Employee Recognition Showcase Editor

Jim Shuler Executive Editor DJJ Communications

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: DODGE COURT SERVICE OFFICE
The Community Service Award is presented to an employee who "...must have exhibited dedication by improving the quality of life for members of the community or made program improvements. Duties performed within state government do not count. Efforts must have been performed on personal time in the community."
Community Service Award WINNER: Dodge Court Service Office (CSO) -- This office is involved in many community activities that make for a better Eastman, Georgia. The Dodge CSO staff volunteers with the Dodge County Community Food Bank to collect and pack food every Friday for their Weekend Backpack Program so local students will receive packs with ready to eat food and snacks for their weekend meals. The office also partners with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to ensure rivers in Pulaski and Bleckley Counties are kept clean and free of pollution. Working with other volunteers, the Dodge CSO staff helped remove more than 500 pounds of trash from the
river sites. This staff also partners
with the Wal-Mart Foundation's Local Community Contribution Program to provide clothes and school supplies for students. The Dodge CSO staff is truly committed to community service and should be applauded for their efforts.
READ MORE

CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD: JPPS II Brad York
The Customer Service Award is presented to an employee who"...made exceptional contributions that exceeded expectations... and taken exceptional initiative... in "going the extra mile"... delivering services to external or internal customers...with timely and appropriate followup, responsiveness to the needs of all customers and demonstrated improvement of customer service and satisfaction."

Customer Service Award

WINNER: Mr. Brad York, JPPS II

(Stephens CSO)--Mr. York's efforts to ensure a youth's return



from Florida to Georgia is the

reason he was selected as the

Customer Service Award

recipient. JPPS York was on a

scheduled day off when he

learned that a youth committed to

the Stephens CSO was on

runaway status. Mr. York

reported to the youth's great-

grandmother and grandmothers'

homes to pick up leads on where

the youth may be located. After

tireless efforts, Mr. York

determined the youth was in

Florida and Mr. York provided

great counsel to the youth who

subsequently reported back to

Georgia to complete her

commitment with DJJ.

READ MORE

LEADERSHIP AWARD: INVESTIGATOR SHAWN SWAIN
The Leadership Award is presented to an employee who "...exemplified and promoted outstanding leadership qualities and behaviors. This individual or team is blazing a trail for others to follow, "head and shoulders above others" in achieving significant and tangible benefits for the agency or work unit."
Leadership Award Winner: Mr. Shawn Swain, Investigator (Office of Investigations) --The DJJ Cold Case Team was formed in July 2013, under the leadership of Investigator Shawn Swain, and at that time the team was assigned approximately 300 cases from 2011 and 2012. During the first
four weeks of the assignment under
Officer Swain's supervision, 64% percent of the cold case investigations were completed. By mid-October all 2011 and 2012 cases were also completed. Officer Swain and his team were assigned 200 additional cases during the first half of 2013 with a completion deadline of December 31, 2013. Officer Swain and his team not only met their deadline, but completed all assigned cases on December 20, 2013. This accomplishment would not have been possible without Officer Swain's ability to lead, manage and mentor. Mr. Swain's leadership while spearheading the Office of Investigations' Cold Case Team is the reason he is the recipient of the Leadership Award.
READ MORE

WHY CONTEST WINNER: MS. SHALANDA CARTER
The"Why Contest" Award is presented for the agency employee-essay selected by the Commissioner for best expressing why a staff member is proud to work for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice.
"The Why Contest" Winner: Ms. Shalanda Carter, Clerk 2 (Claxton RYDC) --Shalanda Carter writes,"There are many reasons why I am proud to be a DJJ employee. I am proud to be a DJJ employee because
we work together as a team to give
troubled youth a solid foundation in becoming successful law-abiding citizens. It is a comforting relief to work in an environment that has values such as accountability, integrity, ongoing personal growth, intellectual curiosity, teamwork and innovation." That is just an excerpt from Ms. Carter's"Why Essay" and those words along with other sentiments in her essay earned her place as winner of"The Why Contest" at DJJ.
READ MORE

Humanitarian Award Winners: JPM Stacy Washington and JPPS II Edric Adside
The Humanitarian Award is presented to an employee who "...demonstrated significant humane concern that was characterized by tenderness, compassion and sympathy for people or animals, especially the suffering or distressed, that improved the individual's welfare, happiness and dignity."

Humanitarian Award WINNERS:

Ms. Stacy Washington, JPM

(Baldwin & Putnam CSO) and Mr.

Edrick Adside JPPS II (Putnam

CSO) - JPM Washington and

JPPS Adside worked tirelessly to

ensure every need of a bi-lateral

amputee youth was met. Their

work afforded the youth an

opportunity to receive a new

prosthesis as well as being



released from DJJ supervision on

April 30, 2014 after only four

months of agency care."We

salute Ms. Washington and Mr.

Adside for the great humanitarian

work."

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: MRS. LINDA PHELPS

From the DJJ Secure Facilities: At

Muscogee YDC, Director Mordie Askew

nominates SSP 1, Mrs. Linda Phelps for

providing youth case management at the

facility and assisting Due Process with

scanning of Disciplinary Reports into JTS.

The nomination says she performs a vital

support role for the facility PBIS Leadership

team and when the SSP 2 was out on



medical leave Mrs. Phelps also served as

the Mental Health "on-call staff" for 8

consecutive weeks. Director Askew says all

these duties are done with an enthusiastic

team approach, exemplifying the meaning of

a professional employee with a positive

approach and selfless attitude.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARD WINNER: REBECCA GALLOWAY
At the Elbert Shaw RYDC, Director Bobby Hughes says he nominates Educational Instructor Rebecca Galloway because "where there is a need Rebecca Galloway is willing to help." The Director's nomination says Instr. Galloway works diligently to recruit and train volunteers from the community and to find and schedule special programs for the facility. Director Hughes says
Galloway also serves on
several committees for the facility and community, including the Wellness Committee, Relay for Life, The Women's Enrichment Center, Special Olympics and the Creative Arts Guild where she actually recruited volunteers to help RYDC youth develop their creativity. Director Hughes says Galloway is also a big supporter of Elbert Shaw's Christmas celebration for the RYDC youth.
READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: LT. RONNIE WHITMAN
At Eastman RYDC, Director Heath Holloway nominated Lt. Ronnie Whitman who has worked for the State of Georgia since 1993. Whitman transferred to Eastman RYDC in 2003, quickly moved up the ranks, made Lieutenant, and serves as the Facility Training Officer Coordinator. The nomination says Lt. Whitman has the respect of
his co-workers because he is an
excellent team player, listens to problems with an open mind, and is known for solutions that benefit both staff and the facility. The nomination describes Whitman as a "tremendous asset to Eastman RYDC" who "..Always puts others before himself.." and is "..Willing to work on his days off or stay late when the shift is short."
READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: LT. KENNETH WARD
At Gainesville RYDC Director Chuck Hewett nominates Lt. Kenneth Ward whose work has consistently improved the facility. The nomination says Lt. Ward has made great strides in every aspect as Administrative Lieutenant for the RYDC. His responsibilities include key control,
emergency plans, OCI preparation
and staff awareness. Director Hewett says Ward strives to set the standard and displays leadership qualities that make a lasting impression on new officers. This nomination says Lt. Ward is the epitome of the kind of officer DJJ needs.
READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: LT. APRIL DESHIELDS

At Claxton RYDC Juvenile

Correctional Lt. April

DeShields is nominated by

Director Shelia Dease who

says the Lieutenant goes

"Above and Beyond" the call

of duty.. ".. every time she

reports for duty and even

when she's off duty."

Director Dease reports Lt.

DeShields frequently shares

ideas to enhance facility

operations and pushed the

implementation of the PBIS

program to help ensure



youth behavior change.

Director Dease cites

DeShields' assistance with

preparations to ensure the

facility was inspection-ready

for the recent DJJ Board tour

of the Claxton RYDC. The

nomination says Lt. April

DeShields oversees training

for newly hired staff,

confirms day-to-day

operations are running

smooth, and that all staff are

following policy and

procedure.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: LT. JAMIE ALLEN

At Rockdale RYDC Director

Sherry Shoats nominated Lt.

Jamie Allen who started with

DJJ as a Juvenile

Correctional Officer in July

2008 and rapidly rose through

the ranks to Lieutenant at

DeKalb RYDC in September

2011. Lt. Allen accepted a

position at Rockdale in June

2013. Described by Director

Shoats as the ultimate team

player who is always

available, Lt. Allen

consistently reports during

staff shortages, serves as

Shift Supervisor, assists in

security training, and is

readily available to any



department needing

assistance. The nomination

credits Lt. Allen for his

knowledge of security and

facility operations, his hard

work, leadership abilities, and

dedication to staff and youth

in our care. The Director

describes Lt. Allen as a

trustworthy confidant, a great

listener with excellent

communication skills, and the

"go to" person who completes

assignments before

deadlines. Director Shoats

says Lt. Jamie Allen

embodies a standard of

excellence and a true leader.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: SERT COMMANDER BRIAN VINSON

At Savannah RYDC, Director

Rodney Dinkins describes

SERT Commander Brian

Vinson as the dedicated, loyal,

and hardworking employee

that every manager dreams of

having on their team. The

nomination says Commander

Vinson accepts the challenge

of additional duties without

complaint. He reports to work

30 minutes early, leaves after

his team has departed, helps

call in off-duty employees



when shifts are short and is

first to volunteer to stay when

the facility security team is

short. Director Dinkins says

Commander Vinson engages

troubled youth, takes time to

talk with them, and helps them

prepare for life in and out of

detention. Director Dinkins

Nominates Commander

Vinson because of "..all the

extra things he does to make

the Savannah RYDC a safe

and friendly environment."

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: AOC II BEVERLY HARRELL

At Waycross RYDC Director

Sheila Phillips nominates AOC II

Beverly Harrell for her diligent

work at hiring new employees to

bring up the facility's staffing

level. Harrell started with DJJ at

the Waycross RYDC in May

2013 and after only 11 and a half

months, her diligent work has

resulted in only 4 full time



vacancies at the facility. During

this time, she has also brought

the facility finances and inventory

into compliance. Director Phillips

describes Beverly Harrell as a

tremendous asset and her

nomination states that Harrell's

dedication to Waycross RYDC

has greatly contributed to the

success of their operations.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: OFFICER SHARON RUSSELL

At Metro RYDC Director Pamela

Mitchell nominates Officer Sharon

Russell who she describes as

"..consistently customer friendly

and security focused." Director

Mitchell says Officer Russell

always displays a positive attitude

and never complains about her

duties even when she has to

holdover when shifts are short.

The nomination says Officer Russell is always willing to go the



extra mile to assist other

departments and "..has been

observed doing the right thing

even when she doesn't realize

anyone is watching." Director

Mitchell observes that models

behavior that Officer Sharon

Russell exemplifies the

expectations of the Department of

Juvenile Justice.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: JCO FRANCHOT YOUNG
At Aaron Cohn RYDC Director Anthony Minnigan nominated Juvenile Corrections Officer Franchot Young who is the facility's AEPM officer. Director Minnigan says JCO Young is a 2012 graduate of BJCOT, extremely organized and has excellent written and verbal communication skills. The nomination says JCO Young does an excellent job enforcing standards resulting in a 15% reduction in the AEPM
return rate since Young
was assigned to the post. The nomination says Young has done an exemplary job and has motivated youth to stay in class and focus on getting their education. Director Minnigan says JCO Young has a consistency and tone to performing his duties and ".. has a strong sense of commitment and loyalty to the organization, its people and the mission." The nomination says JCO Young is a vital part of the facility.
READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: JPPS II ROBIN SPONBERGER

From the DJJ CSO in

Catoosa Juvenile Program

Manager Robb Gilstrap

made this posthumous

nomination for the late

JPPS II Robin Sponberger

who lost her battle with

leukemia in February

2014. Mr. Gilstrap's

nomination describes as a

DJJ staff member who left

behind a legacy of

community service that far

exceeded her required

duties. Ms. Sponberger

began as a Whitfield office

PA in August 2000 and

worked her way to JPPS II

at the Catoosa CSO. She

is remembered for

obtaining housing for a

Catoosa parent whose

child was hospitalized in

Atlanta during placement.

She arranged

transportation for another

Catoosa parent whose

son was injured in a California fire. Ms.



Sponberger made certain

local families had wood to

heat their home fires

during winter and had

presents for their children

at Christmas. She helped

plan the annual high

school play for the Teen

Dating Violence Task

Force across a four-

county circuit and helped

moderate the Q & A

session afterward for

youth who needed

guidance. Among the

many youth and families

who came forward after

Ms. Sponberger passed

away, JPPS III Susan

Edgeworth and JPPS II

Jake Sponberger (her

son) from the Catoosa

staff organized a 5k run to

benefit Communities in

Schools. More than 60

DJJ staff and community

members signed up to

"Run for Robin" in honor

of her legacy.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: SPALDING HITS UNIT
At Spalding CSO, District 4 Director Bill Spears nominates the Spalding HITS Unit for their customer service on behalf of one of their clients. The nomination is based on a plan by JPM George Wimbush, JPPS III Stephanie Blokzyl, PA Sharon Young and JPPS l Carleena Brown to have family portraits taken for a DJJ youth on the HITS caseload whose mother was suffering from a terminal illness. The youth's mother wanted the family photos as a lasting memory for her two children before she died, but she was too sick to have the photos made herself. Together,
the Spalding HITS Unit made
arrangements for the photographer, the processing and the frames. Due to the mother's illness the photo shoot was postponed several times but the pictures were finally taken in a Griffin park and later shared at the DJJ Office with a grateful mother who knew she was in a race against time. The nomination says this effort gave the family something to always remember and cherish. Director Spears says the team work it took to make this special event happen stands as a positive example for current and future employees. Director Spears says it is a distinct honor to supervise such dedicated and caring employees.
READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: ANNETTE JACKSON
And from DJJ Central Office, Annette Jackson from the Office of Training is nominated by Deputy Commissioner Michael McNeely from the Division of Training and Personnel Services. The nomination says Ms. Jackson serves as Secretary II for the DJJ Training Academy Director where she works behind the scenes coordinating training events at the Academy, GPSTC and other venues
in Forsyth, GA. to ensure
successful activities. She manages all meals and lodging for academy programs, coordinates equipment purchases, and coordinates events for other offices and divisions even though it's not her responsibility. The nomination says Ms. Jackson is known for her pleasant personality, willing to be of service, has expert knowledge of the Academy and often goes above and beyond in her duties.
READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND WINNER: MATT MONTGOMERY

At Central Office

Communications Unit,

Special Projects

Coordinator Matt

Montgomery is nominated

by Director Jim Shuler as a

key player on the

Communications Team,

offering creative

consultation on poster and

brochure designs and on

signature graphic styles for

daily News & Views stories,

the DJJ Newsletter, and

Facebook and Twitter

postings. The nomination

says even when their

creatives unit is

overwhelmed with deadline

projects, Matt still goes the

extra mile for customers,

making time to counsel DJJ

clients about how to

convey their messages and

reach their target

audiences. His creative and

colorful contributions have

even attracted project

requests from outside



agencies including state

health officials, federal

contractors, and the Office

of Georgia's First Lady.

Matt also contributes

political guidance during

crisis media situations. He

remains calm during

agency crises and remains

in the office after regular

business hours to see a

crisis through. He is known

for his remarkable memory

and retrieving detailed trivia

during campaign

brainstorming sessions so

often, it has earned him the

nickname Matt "Google"

Montgomery. He always

projects a pleasant, positive

and professional posture.

The nomination says Mr.

Montgomery embraces

tremendous loyalty to the

DJJ Team and mission and

an exceptional ability to

introduce innovative

problem solving

approaches.

READ MORE

ABOVE AND BEYOND: CENTRAL OFFICE SPECIAL PROJECT
The next group of recipients is recognized together for their work on a joint records reconstruction project at Central Office. The nomination reads, their exemplary support was "crucial to the success of the Commissioner's goals to reorganize key administrative file systems and to accurately document a caseload of more than a thousand incomplete investigations". According to the nomination, the professional efforts and personal dedication to this special DJJ assignment were above and beyond the standard call of duty. These 'Above and Beyond' Awards are presented to the following DJJ Staff Members in recognition of their exceptional service to the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice.
From Central Office, PREA Coordinator Adam Barnett, Division of Operations & Compliance.
From the Division of Operations & Compliance, Intelligence Analyst Arkeysha McCullough
From Division of Operations & Compliance, Program Coordinator Lalita Appling
From the SMRT Team, Special Operations Director Amy Fortner,
Division of Operations & Compliance From the SMRT Team, Lt. William Belflower, Division of Operations & Compliance
From SMRT Team Emergency Operations, Jesse Milledge, Division of Operations & Compliance
http://www.djjnewsandviews.org/fyiatdjj/[9/2/2014 7:57:09 AM]

DJJ Public Employee Recognition Week and Above & Beyond Awards

From the SMRT Team, JCO Kimberly Hicks,

Division of Operations & Compliance



From the Office of Investigations, Intelligence Analyst --Investigator, Nathan Katzif

From the Office of Communications, Confidential Secretary Lisa Kenn
In addition to providing outstanding work and being positive co-workers, we hereby designate you as the deserving recipients of DJJ's "Above and Beyond" Award in acknowledgement of the long hours, extra effort, team work and attention to detail which you invested in your assignment.

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FYI at DJJ: Departmental News from around Georgia - Page Two

FYI @ DJJ is your online source for the latest news from our many Department of Juvenile Justice court services offices and secure facilities throughout the state and our divisions at Central Office in Decatur. Learn more about the innovative programs and activities involving your professional DJJ colleagues as they strive to improve the lives of the youth in our care and custody while serving the public safety needs of the citizens of the State of Georgia.
FYI @ DJJ Creative Team
Jim Shuler - Editor, Writer Matt Montgomery - Layout & Design / Writing & Posting Janssen Robinson - Photos, Graphics / Videos & Creatives Lisa Kenn - Production Assistant & Story Research
Xena the Warrior Puppy at the Marietta RYDC
"Recently, Xena the Warrior Puppy, the ASPCA's Dog of the Year, made a special visit to the Marietta RYDC to help share the message about perservering against long and low survival odds and how animal friendship can improve the quality of life for those individuals with serious illness. Appearing before a packed house, Xena the Warrior Puppy wowed the Marietta RYDC youth and served as a reminder that past traumas and problems can be overcome and a better life be found.

READ MORE
The Waycross RYDC and the Wellness Program
Youth at the Waycross Regional Youth Detention Center have been participating in a long-term Wellness Program to improve health and fitness at the facility. As part of the Wellness Program, the youth have planted a garden consisting of squash, bell peppers, tomatoes, corn, carrots, watermelon, cantaloupes, zipper cream peas, banana peppers, okra and sunflowers. Through the planting, youth at the Waycross RYDC are being taught the importance of consistency and responsibility while maintaining the upkeep of the facility garden. In doing so, not only are the youth getting to experience the joys of working outside with the soil, but they are reaping the rewards of their efforts by enjoying the fresh vegtables they have cultivated and harvested.
READ MORE
MOSS Group Advocacy Training
Department of Juvenile Justice Commissioner Avery D. Niles and his Executive Staff met at Central Office in May for special leadership training about the current DJJ culture towards Victimization and its impact on overall agency decision -making.
The "round table" discussion was conducted by the Moss Group, a Washington, DC-based consulting firm and some of the foremost leaders in corrections topics including PREA, gender responsive issues, and correctional sexual abuse concerns.
The special leadership training was developed in partnership between The Moss Group and consultant Anne Seymour specifically for the GA Department of Juvenile Justice.
READ MORE
Ware Court Services Office: Brantley County Teen Maze

On April 28-30th, Brantley County held it's First Annual Teen Maze and the Ware Court Services Office was out in full force. JPPS II Renee Mumford helped plan the event in partnership with the Brantley County Family Connection. Other sponsors of the Teen Maze included Brantley Juvenile Court, Satilla Advocacy, Waycross RYDC, and the Brantley County Sheriff's Office. The goal of the Teen Maze is to simulate the actual experience and process of what happens when one enters into the juvenile justice system. From being handcuffed, fingerprinted, jailed, sentenced, and even probation, the Teen Maze gives a first-hand view of why one does not want to get into legal trouble as a youth.
READ MORE
Views from the Voices of Hope Choir On May 9, 2014, the women's choir, "Voices of Hope", comprised of female inmates housed at Lee Arrendale State prison in Alto, Georgia performed for the youth housed at the Macon YDC. Below are some of the photos from the "Voices of Hope" visit.
Read more
Chatham Multi-Service Center Honors National Crime Victims' Rights Month in April Working diligently to draw awareness to National Crime Victims' Rights Month, the Chatham Multi-Service Center (Chatham MSC) participated in and hosted a wide variety of educational activities during April. Among the many events hosted was a youth unity day at a local park, an educational Impact of Crime facilitation meeting, and a Parental Education Forum.

Read more

Bibb MSC and Bibb Intake: The Mentors Project
Recently, members of the Bibb MultiService Center and Bibb Intake helped collect and donate food items to The Mentors Project of Bibb County. The food collection is one part of the overall charity and volunteer goal of Department of Juvenile Justice employees in Middle Georgia.
The Mentors Project provides role models for encouragement and motivation to Bibb County Public School students. These students need additional support outside their family to assist them in reaching their full academic social and personal potentials. Some of The Mentors Project's goals and objectives are as followed: to reduce the dropout rate in the Bibb County Public Schools, improve the student's academic performance, help students consider post high school options, positively affect the student's behavior and attitude, and to enhance the students self-confidence and self-awareness. The Mentors Project provides a number of community service projects which allow the children the opportunity to learn to share their talents and give back to the community. Mentoring works, The Mentors Projects' 2013 graduation rate is 82%.
Read more here

Morgan CSO: BARJ Spring Project

On April 21st, Morgan County

Court Services Office employees

JPPS Franklin Givens and JPM

Angie Sims worked with several

local youth to clean up the Morgan

County Parks and Recreation

Facility as part of DJJ's Balanced

and Restorative Justice (BARJ)

program. Youth and staff worked

side by side during the day to

remove rocks and clean up trash

from the grounds. Many of the

youth attending were completing required service hours as part of



the Youth Accountability Program.

Balanced And Restorative Justice (BARJ) is based on an understanding that crime is an act against a victim and a community and that restoring victims and communities is a vital part of the process of treating the youth in the YDC/YFC system, decreasing the chances that they will reoffend.

Read more

National Crime Victims' Rights Week: Appling CSO
Throughout this year's thirtieth annual National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Department of Juvenile Justice would like to highlight some of the great work being done on behalf of victims across the state of Georgia. For the employees of the Appling County Court Services Office, protecting the rights of victims is a year-round passion for the staff.
Partnering with the Appling County District Attorney's office among others, the Appling CSO helped create the Victim's Memorial built
from private funds. As part of the
Victim's Memorial is the Victim Memorial Walk, a brick walkway that has on each brick the names and dates of passing of local area victims.
Read more

DJJ Cares: Evans County Special Olympics
Through the power of sports, Special Olympics helps people with intellectual disabilities feel welcome in their communities and develop a profound belief in themselves. The Department of Juvenile Justice is a proud supporter of the Special Olympics in Georgia and the fantastic work that they do to encourgage youth in our communities. Recently, the Evans County Court Services Office ran with the DJJ Special Olympics "torch" by participating in the Evans County Special Olympics competition day on April 11th.
The Evans County Court Services
Office staff and the youth under
supervision of this office participated in helping set up the event and helping to pack everything up after the event was completed. The Evans CSO team also helped to warm up the Special Olympics athletes with a round of jumping jacks and stretches. JPM Tim Strickland of Evans County served as the Mascot for this year's competition.
Read more
Jeff Davis Court Services Office: Victims' Right Week
For youth on probation in Jeff Davis, learning about the experiences of of victims is a way to gain empathy for others and appreciate the true negative aspects of crime; with any crime, there is usually a perpetrator and a victim and both are impacted dramatically by the nature of the offense. On Friday, April 11th, the Jeff Davis Court Services Office held a gathering for youth on probation commemorating the 2014 Victims' Rights Week.
Led by JPPS III Greg Lovett and JPPS II Bennie Boutwell, the Jeff Davis youth engaged in a group conversation on why it is important to recognize victims and their families. The discussion was kickstarted after a video, "30 Years of Restorative Justice", was shown summarizing the nature of crime and victims in their community and how Balance and Restorative Justice can be used to bring healing to victims. Following the video and discussion, the youth were divided into groups where they made victim-related posters.
Read more
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FYI @ DJJ -- 'GOOD TO KNOW' -- News Stories
Departmental News from around Georgia

FYI @ DJJ is your online source for the latest news from our many Department of Juvenile Justice court services offices and secure facilities throughout the state and our divisions at Central Office in Decatur. Learn more about the innovative programs and activities involving your professional DJJ colleagues as they strive to improve the lives of the youth in our care and custody while serving the public safety needs of the citizens of the State of Georgia.

Rockdale RYDC News

The state Department of Juvenile Justice is set to open a new regional youth detention center in Rockdale County on July 24.

The project, which has been in the works since 2009, will be the topic of a presentation by DJJ Commissioner Avery Niles at a meeting of the Greater Rockdale Civic Association, set for Tuesday, June 18, 7 p.m. at Peachtree Academy, 1801 Ellington Road.

According to Jim Shuler, director of communications for the DJJ, the



former Rockdale-DeKalb Probation

Detention Center located behind the

Rockdale County Jail has been

retrofitted for use as a 52-bed

RYDC. Shuler said all the original

open-bay sleeping areas were

converted into individual cells to

conform to the new federal Prison

Rape Elimination Act requirements.

Shuler said locating an RYDC in Rockdale fits with the department's overall goal of successful rehabilitation.

Read more

Local RYDC Officer Honored By State

Administrative Lt. Irene Lyons from the Elbert Shaw Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC) in Dalton was honored May 20 in an awards ceremony at the Georgia Public Training Center in Forsyth. Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) Commissioner Avery D. Niles made the presentation. Representatives from all statewide Department of Juvenile Justice secure facilities were present for the occasion.

Lyons has been employed at the

RYDC in Dalton for more than 16 years. Starting as a cook in the



RYDC kitchen, she has steadily

risen through the DJJ ranks from

Juvenile Corrections Officer I,

sergeant, and lieutenant. In April,

Lyons was promoted to

administrative lieutenant by DJJ's

Dalton Facility Director Bobby

Hughes. As a result of the most

recent promotion, Lyons now

occupies the most senior juvenile

corrections officer position. Her

duties include staff scheduling, on-

call duties and assisting the director

and assistant director in the daily

operations of the facility.

Read more



FYI AT DJJ HOME | PAGE TWO LATEST EDITION | GOOD TO KNOW | APRIL 2013
3408 Covington Highway - Decatur, GA - 30032 Phone: 404-508-6500 / Fax: 404-508-7289 Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice

FYI at DJJ: Departmental News
DJJ HOME | DJJ NEWS | FACILITIES & PROGRAMS | COMMISSIONER'S CORNER | CONTACT DJJ

Winter 2014

www.djjnewsandviews.org/fyiatdjj

FYI at DJJ: Departmental News from around Georgia

FYI @ DJJ is your online source for the latest news from our many Department of Juvenile Justice court services offices and secure facilities throughout the state and our divisions at Central Office in Decatur. Learn more about the innovative programs and activities involving your professional DJJ colleagues as they strive to improve the lives of the youth in our care and custody while serving the public safety needs of the citizens of the State of Georgia.
FYI @ DJJ Creative Team
Jim Shuler - Editor, Writer Matt Montgomery - Layout & Design / Writing & Posting Janssen Robinson - Photos, Graphics / Videos & Creatives Lisa Kenn - Production Assistant & Story Research
DJJ Commissioner Niles Appointed to Child Advocate Nominating Committee
Governor Nathan Deal has appointed DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles to the nominating committee for the selection of Georgia's next head of the Office of the Child Advocate. The Governor's nominating committee is responsible for finding a deserving successor to current Child Advocate Tonya Boga, whose three year appointment is soon to be completed.
The nominating committee will recommend candidates for consideration for Georgia's Child Advocate position. Members will select from a pool of applicants who are qualified to perform duties for the Child Advocate job using their knowledge of the child welfare system, the Georgia legal system, and the juvenile justice system.
Commissioner Niles joins a statewide group of professionals who sit on the Child Advocacy nominating committee. The committee includes Cherokee County Juvenile Court Judge John Sumner, Carrollton Police Chief Joel Richards, Brunswick Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jackie Johnson, DHS Commissioner Keith Horton, Georgia COO Bart Gobiel, and Department of Behavioral Health and Development Disabilities Commissioner Frank Berry.
The vision for the Georgia Office of the Child Advocate is to be the first place for those in government and the private sector to turn for advice, assistance, and aid using proven, evidence-based practices to assist the at-risk families and foster children of our state.
READ MORE
GPA Food Services Wellness Goals
The Department of Juvenile Justice Food Services Division is proud to provide information to other food and nutrition sites across the country that can help you provide a healthier environment for the youth in your life.
The Office of Nutrition and Food Services is responsible for meeting the nutritional and dietary needs of youth housed in DJJ facilities. This goal is accomplished by providing continuous education, training and support for the food service staff, menu design and distribution, and nutrition education information.
READ MORE

DJJ Cares: Thanksgiving Support Across Georgia
For most Americans, Thanksgiving is a time of reflection and support for our families and the community at large. At the Department of Juvenile Justice, employees take the spirit of Thanksgiving to heart by going above and beyond the call of duty to those most of need of help.
During the recent holiday, the staff from the Muscogee MSC, Muscogee Intake, and Muscogee CSO provided a Thanksgiving luncheon for the homeless and less fortunate members of the local community. Lunch was provided entirely through donations from generous staff. Over fifty meals were provided to those in need.
At the Dodge County Court Services Office, a recent home visit of a youth current under the supervision of the court by Pulaski County JPPS Jeff Lowery and Community Supervision Specialist Jessie Mincey, led to additional help. A routine safety plan compliance of the home turned up missing window panes and not much in the way of food in the family refrigerator. While the family was attempting to make the best of their current circumstances, it was obvious that the family was having some issues and this weighed on the hearts of both of the DJJ supervisors. Thanksgiving support was needed.
Read more about Muscogee CSO here
Read more about Dodge County CSO here
In Their Own Words....

This is a news feature about all DJJ Staff -- About your countless acts of daily kindness-- About the public you serve and the needs you meet without seeing regular recognition from that public.
Occasionally one of those youth or their families find time to write about your tireless efforts and how you helped turn around one young life when nothing else seemed to take effect.
The Communications Unit has been collecting letters from Staff like you to share with all our deserving DJJ Teammates.
Of course we're keeping the names of the youth in these letters private and changing the names of their facilities, family members, and even the DJJ Staff they wrote about. These Staff members are sharing their own letters to reassure you what a positive force for change you have become.
The following letters (with edits) came from committed DJJ youth..
IN THEIR OWN WORDS..
Youth Letter Number One: "Why I don't ever wont to come back"
Dear DJJ Staff Member Jones, (not her real name)
I don't ever wont to come back to (a DJJ secure facility) because first I will be respectful to my mother, father and teachers and other adults. I will do what they ask me to do at all times, when they ask me to clean up my room, do dishes, and anything else they ask me to do with out them having to tell me twice and over and over again. I will do it the first time they tell me without back talking.
Secondly I don't needed to be in jail. I have school to finish and I need to repair for high school and don't need to be preparing for jail.
I also will make better decision and choices. I do ever thing right in the house so that I don't have to run away. I also will set a better example for my baby sister so that she can exceed in life. That's why I will never come back to (a DJJ secure facility).
I'm going to miss you
DJJ Youth Number One
******
Youth Letter Number Two: "Going to Change"
Dear DJJ Staff Member Jones, (not her real name)
I don't want to end up in this (DJJ secure facility) because it's no where I will love to be at. It's not a fun place. There's NO FREEDOM, NO GOOD FOOD I LIKE TO EAT & YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO WATCH YOUR BACK.
I am going to start being myself and stop getting attitudes fast. I am going to learn to stay in the right crowd. Im starting to stay in the right crowd. Im starting to start back saying yes ma'm. No ma'm, yes sir, no sir.
I only got two more months in middle school. Im going to stay in school and do better. Im going to take a brake from being too close with my sister. I'm going to start doing the right things so I won't be in (a DJJ secure facility) or dead.
Thank You for my Reality Check
DJJ Youth Number Two
(END OF LETTERS)
As one veteran DJJ manager told us, "..You won't always see all the good you did for a young person immediately. Often times you won't see it until years later when you see a young adult in passing who can then articulate what a difference "YOU" made..'
Along with these grateful youth, Commissioner Avery D. Niles shared his message of thanks for all you do for the Department of Juvenile Justice. Commissioner Niles said, "Sometimes when work becomes especially demanding, we all have those moments when we might question if we're really making a difference. But I encourage you, that even when you don't see immediate change in our youth, you should know that I consider the work you do every day a valued commitment."
"These letters from committed youth are treasures to be shared by us all and the progress made by these youth is inspirational," said Commissioner Niles. "I sincerely thank the DJJ Staff member who shared these letters to help motivate us to a higher level of public service. I ask each of you to keep up the good work. I thank all of you for your service and I know others are also proud of you for all the good you do here each day."
The DJJ Communications Team extends its appreciation to the DJJ Staff member who provided these inspiring letters. On behalf of Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Executive Management Team, we thank you for helping us bring another "Positive Message for Change" to this profession and to the DJJ workplace.
Whether you serve in Corrections, Counseling, Administration, Education, Health or any of the many professional fields it takes to support youth in our care and custody, if you have received a letter of thanks from a DJJ parent or youth, please share a copy with us so we can share it with your colleagues. Let it serve as an inspiration and example to all of your 4,200 DJJ family members throughout the state. Let us hear from you soon so we can publish a new letter of DJJ success every month...IN THEIR OWN WORDS..
Send your special letters to jimshuler@djj.state.ga.us.

Do You Know the Law?
"KNOW THE LAW"...This issue of "FYI @ DJJ" features another installment of DJJ's new "Do You Know the Law?" website. This teen legal forum site was envisioned by Commissioner Avery D. Niles to help teens become better informed about our state legal system and to avoid negative encounters with Georgia's juvenile justice system.
DJJ is partnering with nationally recognized author J. Tom Morgan to use excerpts from the former DeKalb County District Attorney's book entitled, "A Teenager's Guide to Georgia Law". As a child advocate, attorney J. Tom Morgan compiled his guide to defend young people against becoming victims and perpetrators of crimes.
Attorney Morgan also calls his book, "Ignorance Is No Defense". He and DJJ Commissioner Niles share a common concern for teens who don't understand they're responsible for violations of law, even if they don't realize their actions are illegal before they commit the crime.
With the author's permission, DJJ is sharing share excerpts of Georgia laws that can impact the freedom of Georgia teens every day. But this feature is meant as a guide, not as legal advice. Anyone who has trouble with the law should talk to their lawyer.
EXAMPLE: Here's an example of an "Ignorance Is No Defense" situation involving consensual sexual relations among teens that can seriously affect young people in Georgia.
DID YOU KNOW? Did you know that a teenage couple having sexual relations can result in an arrest for statutory rape even If one of the teens tells the other he or she is 16-- (and they're not?)
AND.. Did you know that the charge for statutory rape can be made even if the other person under 16 years old consents to have sex?
SCENARIO: Person A is 17 years old. Person A believes that Person B is 16 years old. Person B tells Person A that Person B is 16 years old and looks at least 16 years old. Person A has sexual intercourse with Person B. Person B is actually 15 years old. Person A is guilty of statutory rape.
BEFORE THE CRIME: Prior to Person A's arrest, Person A did not know that Person A could be charged with statutory rape if Person A made an honest mistake about the other person's age.
OUTCOME: Person A cannot use "ignorance of the law" as a defense!
The legal age for consent to sexual contact in Georgia is 16 years old. Sexual contact means any type of sexual activity, including intimate touching of the other person's body.

The crime of statutory rape occurs when a person has sexual intercourse with a person under 16 years of age.

Relying on real-life cases from his career

experience as both a prosecutor and a

defense attorney, examples like these in

attorney J. Tom Morgan's book often bring

reactions of disbelief and dismay from both DISCLAIMER: "Know The Law" is for

teens and parents who read about the

informational purposes only. It is not legal

consequences of reckless teen actions. advice. To obtain legal advice, speak with an

DJJ'S monthly newsletter and "News & Views" on-line publication will feature more examples of serious criminal laws that can impact Georgia juveniles.

attorney. The law varies from state to state and outcomes of individual legal matters can
vary depending on the particular facts and circumstances. This DJJ feature does not
create an attorney-client relationship

For more examples of surprising "No

between either the author of this feature or

Defense" scenarios in Georgia, visit our any attorney included in this feature and any

"KNOW THE LAW" webpage at this link:

reader of this feature.

http://www.djjnewsandviews.org/knowthelaw/

Read more

Toombs County Service Learning Project: American Red Cross
Last month, several DJJ youth from Toombs County learned about emergency response planning by participating in a Service Learning Project sponsored by the American Red Cross. The scenario presented the youth had real world implications: what would be the emergency response be if the local Plant Hatch nuclear plant experienced a meltdown disaster ?
Held at the Toombs County Middle School
where the American Red Cross houses individuals during real emergencies, the DJJ youth helped arrange many of the stations of the model emergency center. After creating the post decontamination sign-in station, DJJ volunteers also helped to create both a medical room and shelter room for potential victims. A temporary cafeteria also was created where youth prepared snacks for the would-be participants.
Read more

Coweta CSO: Corral Duty

Earlier this month, youth from the Coweta

Court Services Office HITS (High Intensity

Team Supervision) program got to spend

an afternoon around the barnyard as part

of a service learning project with Coweta

CORRAL. The Coweta CORRAL, the

Coweta Organization for Riding, Rehabilitation and Learning, operates



programs involving horses that benefit the

public and/or serve individuals with special

needs, including but not limited to equine

assisted activities and therapies.

Read more

DJJ Medical Director Receives National Honors
Commissioner Avery D. Niles of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice is pleased to announce DJJ Medical Director, Dr. Michelle Staples-Horne, is the recipient of the 2013 Armond Start Award for
Professional Excellence from the Society
of Correctional Physicians (SCP). Dr. Staples-Horne received this high honor at the SCP's October 27th meeting in Nashville, TN.
Read more

November marks the one-year anniversary of my appointment by Governor Deal as the Commissioner of the Department of Juvenile Justice. Looking back, I want to share some insights from the last 365 days with this Department. I am happy to say that we have witnessed many accomplishments together over the past year and I would like to recognize some of those with you.

We have seen the successful passage of

Georgia's Juvenile Justice Reform

legislation and the Governor signing HB

242 into law. We have restructured the

Department's organization chart. We have

added new members to the agency's

outstanding leadership team.



Inside the classrooms of the state's 181st school district, we have observed a promising increase in the graduation rate of our youth in custody, based on upgrades to our educational programming. Concurrently, our youth-on-youth assault rates have diminished from year to year.

We have updated more than 900 officers' training records with POST to ensure that all of our certified corrections staff will be found in good standing. We also have approval from POST Council to increase our Basic Juvenile Corrections Officer training from a 4-week course to a professional 5-week course.
READ MORE

After D-A Calls DJJ Polygraph Director as Expert Witness.. Defense Team Withdraws their own Polygraph Evidence
When an investigation at the Department of Juvenile Justice requires testimony that's been lie detectortested, investigators put in a call for DJJ's Polygraph Director, Jerry Rowe.
Rowe is a 30-year retired Agent for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation where he specialized in sex cases. He spent seven of those years at the GBI working polygraphs. And as a local newspaper once described him while he worked polygraphs for the Bartow County Sheriff's Office, "You bare your soul to Jerry Rowe."

This summer, the District Attorney in Brunswick calledin DJJ's Polygraph Director Jerry Rowe as an expert witness to help refute polygraph testimony for a hearing in a high profile Coastal Georgia homicide case. But before that hearing concluded, Jerry Rowe's case research resulted in the defense team withdrawing their own polygraph evidence altogether. And the opposing polygraph examiner, who came to testify on behalf of the defense, admitted in open court that he'd been caught in a lie.
Read more

2013 GEORGIA PREPARATORY ACADEMY TEACHER OF THE YEAR CEREMONY

On November 20th, the Georgia Preparatory Academy held its Teacher of the Year Ceremony at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth, Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice Teacher of the Year program is designed to recognize and honor teachers that have gone above and beyond the call of duty to provide the best educational opportunities for the youth that have been entrusted in their care. Using an organizing committee, a reward structure has been implemented to provide an incentive system for the teachers that have been selected to represent their facilities, regions, and the Department of Juvenile Justice. The committee consists entirely of former DJJ Teachers of the Year.

The selection process for this year's Teacher of the Year finalists included the following for each facility:

Every staff in the Education Department will vote on a Teacher Nominee to represent their facility.

All teachers that are selected must have at least 1 year of teaching experience.

Each candidate must be in good standing as a teacher and employee; and cannot be currently under any level of the EAD Process.

Nominees should be screened for excessive tardiness and absentees.

All selected Teachers of the Year

Nominees will be approved by the

facility management team.



All nominees must have a clear renewable teaching certificate as required in the GA TOTY guidelines.

Once the facilities have made their choices for Teacher of the Year, there is a regional process which includes:

Regional Principals will select a finalist from the perspective sites in their regions. Selections will be based on teacher performance and other attributes that makes them an outstanding teacher.
Once the Regional Finalist are selected; they will be notified by their Regional Principal and presented with the GA TOTY Packet.
There are a total of 4 regional Finalist that will compete for the Georgia Preparatory Academy Teacher of the Year.
Finalist must submit the Georgia Teacher of the Year Packet as well as be observed by the Teacher of the Year Committee.

The Georgia Preparatory Academy Teacher of the Year will represent the Department of Juvenile Justice in May 2014 for the Georgia Department of Education Teacher of the Year. They will be awarded at a banquet with all Georgia School Districts Teachers of the Year Nominees.

Read more

The Holidays. Just the phrase conjures up visions of turkey, Christmas trees, presents, parties, and seasonal joy and good-will. Unfortunately, for many of people, the holidays are a time to reflect on past defeats, mistakes, rejections, and to experience anxiety and despair. But with a little awareness, we can recognize and combat holiday depression.

Many factors contribute to holiday

depression, including: increasingly hectic

holiday schedules; financial stress caused

by holiday shopping and entertaining;

feelings of sadness caused by failures,

real or perceived, over the past year;



feelings of loneliness, especially for people

who are unable to be with loved ones; and

unrealistic expectations. Even individuals

who do not usually experience symptoms

of depression may fall prey to such

symptoms as fatigue, poor sleep,

headaches, anxiety, and excessive

drinking. For individuals who do have

depression, symptoms can be intensified.

People may be embarrassed to admit they

are depressed during what "should" be

"the most wonderful time of the year," and

often suffer in silence.

READ MORE

Recently, the Muscogee Youth

Development Campus concluded its

second twelve week session of its Helping

Hounds Across Georgia collaboration with

the Harris County Humane Society. Using

dogs that were abandoned at the shelter

or simply found in the street, volunteers

from the Harris County Humane Society

come to the Muscogee YDC each Friday

to teach DJJ youth in the art of training

undisciplined dogs. Without intervention,

the dogs brought to the facility would not

have as long a life expectancy, so the work

done by the DJJ youth is of vital



importance.

In addition to the direct visits to the Muscogee YDC by the Harris County Humane Society, DJJ youth who meet the criteria to participate have supervised visits to the kennels to insure sanitation, exercise, and training. The ultimate goal for each dog involved in Hounds Across Georgia is being adoption ready by the end of the twelve week session.

READ MORE

One of the more rewarding aspects of working at the Department of Juvenile Justice is the ability to reach out and provide unique learning experiences for youth who have never had the chance to enjoy life moments that many of us take for granted. Whether it is spending time learning about the arts or spending time outdoors in nature, Service Learning Projects are a small but important way for the young people in our care to enjoy life experiences while connecting with their community.

Recently, the Department of Juvenile

Justice's Dodge Court Services Office

along with the Department of Natural



Resources held a service learning project

at the Dykes River Landing in Bleckley

County. Over twelve local youth

participated in a day of cleaning the river,

lawn maintenance, and structural painting.

READ MORE

Cooking with the Aaron Cohn RYDC
Earlier this month, the youth at the Aaron Cohn RYDC got into the Thanksgiving spirit by decorating banners for an upcoming Fall Harvest. As part of the decorative festivities, a competition was held where the winning team would receive a cooking skills class as a reward.
Using the motto, "VOICE: Let Your Voice Be Heard", the youth from the Aaron Cohn A-Pod won the banner competition and
were able to participate in the cooking
skills class held by Ms. Tanya Bryant of the non-profit organization, Isaiah's House. In addition to being a great cook and teacher, Ms. Bryant is a dedicated volunteer at the Aaron Cohn RYDC.
Read more

DJJ at the Thomas County Literary Fair

The Thomas County Certified Literate

Community Program (CLCP), a consortium

of literacy providers and other friends of

literacy, held their sixth annual Literacy

Fair on Thursday, October 24th 2013, to

raise awareness of local efforts to combat

illiteracy. While estimates of illiteracy top

33% in this area, numerous local

organizations are working hard to increase

literacy levels in the areas of reading,

financial, health, workforce management,

and education.



Many local agencies, including public schools, mental health agencies, law enforcement, and several state agencies (including the Thomas Count Health Dept., Thomas County Public Library, and Department of Family & Children Services) gathered in the parking lot of the public library to distribute literature about their specific organizations.

READ MORE
FYI at DJJ: Departmental News from around Georgia -- PAGE THREE

Working for the Department of Juvenile Justice can be an exciting career choice for individuals with the drive, determination, and passion to improve the lives of the youth in our care.
In our "Professional Momentum" showcase, Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the DJJ Leadership Team want to recognize staff members who have recently been promoted or hired to key positions within the department. Commissioner Niles is pleased to announce this new online feature of the DJJ Newsletter, designed to welcome and congratulate those who strive to make DJJ a better work place every day.

PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: KAWAIN REESE
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Division of Community Services are pleased to announce the promotion of Kawain Reese to the position of Case Expeditor for the Macon RYDC in the SW Region.

Kawain Reese began his public

service career as a Social Services

Case Manager with the Bibb County

Department of Family and Children Services. After two years with Social



Services, Kawain began work with

the Department of Juvenile Justice in

September of 2006. After starting as

an Intake Officer for Bibb County he

transferred to Monroe County as a

JPPS II. He later served as a school

based probation officer for Mary

Persons High School, Monroe County

Alternative School, and Monroe

County Middle School.

READ MORE

PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: ANTHONY MINNIGAN
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Division of Secure Facilities are pleased to announce the promotion of Anthony Minnigan to the position of Facility Director at Aaron Cohn RYDC.
Before his career with the Department of Juvenile Justice, Mr. Anthony Minnigan served 32 years in the United States Army holding assignments as a Military Policeman, Correctional Officer and Healthcare Recruiter. He has held numerous
leadership positions ranging from
Guard Commander, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, Operations Sergeant and Battalion Command Sergeant Major. Mr. Minnigan's personal military citations include the Legion of Merit, (4) Meritorious Service Medals, (4) Army Commendation Medals, (5) Army Achievement Medals, (2) Army Superior Unit Awards, and (10) Army Good Conduct Medals. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources.
READ MORE

PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: FRA JOHNSON-MADDOX
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Division of Secure Facilities are pleased to announce the promotion of Mrs. Fra JohnsonMaddox to the position of Assistant Director of Security for the Atlanta YDC.
Mrs. Fra Johnson-Maddox has worked for the Georgia Department of
http://www.djjnewsandviews.org/fyiatdjj/winter2014.html[9/2/2014 7:57:38 AM]

FYI at DJJ: Departmental News

Juvenile Justice more than 15 years. She began her DJJ journey in 1995 at the Griffin RYDC as a part-time JCO I, while also working as a fulltime Advisory Counselor for Angela's House Group Home. In 1999 she became a full-time team member for the department when she accepted a position as an Education Instructional Aide.
READ MORE
PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: JANET PINEIRO
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Division of Community Services are pleased to announce the promotion of Ms. Janet Leigh Pineiro to the position of Juvenile Program Manager position for the Colquitt County CSO.
Janet Pineiro began her career with
Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice at Colquitt County CSO in 2007 as a JPPS II. In March 2013 Ms. Pineiro was promoted to a JPPS III leadership role at Colquitt CSO. She began her new Juvenile Program Manager position at Colquitt CSO in October 2013.
READ MORE
PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: MEREDITH DUNAWAY
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Decatur County Court Services Office are pleased to announce the promotion of Mrs. Meredith Dunaway to the position of JPPS III for the Decatur County HITS unit.
Mrs. Meredith Dunaway has been
with the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice since 2002 as a JPPS II in the Decatur County Court Services Office. She assumed her new duties as JPPS III for the Decatur County HITS Unit on November 1, 2013.
READ MORE
PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: SCOTTIE ELROD
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Decatur County Court Services Office are pleased to announce the promotion of Mr. Scottie Elrod to the position of JPPS II with the Stephens CSO.
JPPS Elrod held the position of JPPS
I with the HITS Unit at the Barrow Court Services Office from 2004 until 2006 and continued to hold that position at the Stephens CSO from 2006 to present until his promotion to JPPS II.
READ MORE
PROFESSIONAL MOMENTUM: AMANDA SHIRLEY
DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles and the Stephens CSO HITS unit are pleased to announce the promotion of Ms. Amanda Shirley to the position of JPPS III with the Stephens CSO.
Before being promoted to a full-time
JPPS II position with the Department of Juvenile Justice, since 2006 Ms. Shirley served as JPPS II at the Stephens and Hart Court Service Offices. During that time she was also working a part-time position as a Social Service Aide.
READ MORE
FYI AT DJJ HOME | PAGE TWO LATEST EDITION | PAGE THREE LATEST EDITION | GOOD TO KNOW | FALL 2013
3408 Covington Highway - Decatur, GA - 30032 Phone: 404-508-6500 / Fax: 404-508-7289 Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice