Texas Juvenile Justice

A PUBLICATION OF THE today TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT

A Message From the Director El Paso County Takes To The Big Stage page 2 January has been busy at TJJD as we TJJD Implements Human Trafficking Course for All continue to move rapidly on a number Direct Care Staff in February page 3 of initiatives. On January 13, we again met with the Regionalization Task Force SPOTLIGHT: Vikki Reasor, Principal, Gainesville State as we move toward implementation this School page 4

a funding application for the regional TJJD Co-Hosts Strengthening Youth & Families diversionsummer. of At individual this meeting, youth. we finalizedWe also Conference page 5 discussed the work being done within each David Reilly Judy Davis Honored as 2015 Outstanding Community region to identify regionalization opportunities. A number of Volunteer page 7 private providers shared details of how their services could be incorporated into the regionalization efforts. It was a productive Rep. Ruth McClendon Honored as 2015 Champion for meeting. I am particularly grateful to Travis County for hosting. Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention page 7 Our county partners are doing a great job of working within their regions to ensure services are available when we begin our Family Involvement Survey Demonstrates Agency diversion efforts in June. Gains page 8 We are continuing to look for avenues to expand our canine AMIKids-Rio Grande Valley: TJJD’s Residential Provider program – Pairing Achievement With Success (PAWS) – into of the Year! page 9 additional facilities. Last November, the PAWS program at our Harris County Juvenile Probation Department and Ron Jackson facility in Brownwood teamed with Service Dogs Disability Rights, Texas Form Partnership page 9 Inc., an organization that trains dogs to assist Texans living with hearing or mobility challenges. PAWS participants will SPOTLIGHT: Bill Austin, Wise and Jack counties Chief now provide initial training for shelter animals that will go Juvenile Probation Officer page 10 on to become service dogs. This effort will touch many lives, including those in need of a companion animal as well as the TJJD Hosts PREA Audit Readiness Conference page 11 youth trainers. The program at Ron Jackson has now expanded TJJD Kicks Off Tattoo Removal Program page 12 to boys; currently. We also expect the program to be operating at the Gainesville State School later this Spring. Evins Staff and Volunteers Share Thanksgiving With Families page 12 The agency recently implemented an intramural athletic program at each secure campus and all youth are actively participating in TJJD Utilizes Technology to Bring Families Together seasonal sports. A Players Council was formed at each school, page 13 made up of a representative from each team. The council will Willoughby House Christmas page 14 be a voice for the students to the staff, expressing concerns, ideas, and opinions about the intramural program, and will also Upcoming TJJD Sponsored or Co-Sponsored Trainings relay information from the staff back to their respective teams. and Webinars page 15 I am excited about the intramural programing. It is a natural Employees Receiving Tenure Awards page 16

Continued on page 3

JANUARY 2016 El Paso County Takes To The Big Stage The El Paso County Juvenile Probation Department’s Challenge Academy is the department’s long-term residential program that provides evidence-based programming, substance abuse treatment and life skills for the overall growth and development of youth and their families.

Since 2013, the Challenge Academy Explorers Post has been an active participant in the annual Sun Bowl Parade, building parade

youth. It all started with an idea to give back tofloats the thatcommunity have specialand experience meaning what for the community has to offer to our youth. The 2013 “Eye of the Tiger” parade float.

first float in 2013 drew on the motivation and Itdedication was titled that “Eye fictional of the Tiger” boxer and Rocky received Balboa an honorabledisplayed in mention not giving by paradeup and judges.fighting to win.

In 2014, Challenge Academy youth and counselors drew from the fact that most of the youth have to learn to be adults before their time at the expense of their childhood. The group’s entry that year was their “Angry Birds”

(Best Presentation of the Parade Theme). float which received the Governor’s Award The Challenge Academy’s 2015 “Space 2014 “Angry Birds” parade float. stars, all you need is dedication, motivation andShuttle” hope. float The stressed message that, to youth to reach was that for the sky is the limit and they should reach for the stars in their dreams and goals in life. “Space Shuttle” received the General’s Award (Most Outstanding Small Float).

and rewards. Team advisors Lee Camack, AlfredoEvery float Saucedo, comes Rocio with itsEstrada set of goals,and Margaux lessons Marquez and a set of youth work hours and hours, days to days and even months to raise

ground up. Congratulations to the El Paso Challengethe money Academy for the float staff and and built youth it fromfor their the dedication, hard work spirit of excellence. 2015 “Space Shuttle” parade float.

2 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 A Message From the Director (continued) way for youth to build teamwork staff and our mission. are meeting the needs of the and participate in normalizing youth; activities. I continually look to Finally, the agency published its expand programing at our facilities 2015 Treatment Effectiveness The program for youth with that allow kids to be kids. Report last month. This report substance abuse problems contains interesting and instructive • shows a treatment completion I’ve been traveling to a number of data on our youth population, rate of 93% overall and facilities during the past several commitment numbers, program demonstrated a reduction of months, engaging our employees enrollment and completion rates. recidivism rates from last year. in town hall meetings and listening to their suggestions and concerns. report: Youth whose combined This is a very constructive exercise. Some interesting findings in the treatment services included • I leave each facility having learned 99 percent of the youth both mental health and more about the important work entering TJJD have at least one substance abuse treatment • of our incredible staff. Having a specialized treatment need, and experienced reduced recidivism two-way dialogue with the people 98 percent of those are receiving rates compared to FY2014, doing the real work of our agency is appropriate treatment; decreasing from 58% to 41%. helping to inform me of how we can Psychiatric hospitalizations The report can be found on our achieve a better balance between and emergency room visits website. treatment and accountability in • hit an all-time low in FY2015, our facilities. It also gives me a indicating that mental health tremendous sense of pride in our services provided in the agency

TJJD Implements Human Trafficking Course for All Direct Care Staff in February

years, a trend likely to continue as more information and statistics become available on Human trafficking has been a prominent training topic in Texas and nationally for several local juvenile probation departments have worked with a number of entities including the trafficking and exploitation, especially related to children. Over the last few years, TJJD and and International Hope, to seek professional development in this area as a proactive measure for staff to enhance awareness and responsivityAttorney to the needs General’s of these Office, youth Department in our system. of Public Safety, Traffick911, Allies Against Slavery,

State legislation mandated human trafficking training for all juvenile correctional officers, along with trauma informed care training. TJJD curriculum developers recently completed a new 2-hour human trafficking course that will be charactersimplemented and into processes the new are hire provided. schedule This for course all incoming also instructs juvenile staff correctional on how to officersrecognize beginning the signs in and February. symptoms This of course is an introduction to human trafficking where a discussion of definitions and terms, myths and facts, and to providing this new course to all new hires, TJJD will also provide this training to all tenured staff. Juvenile probation departmentsvictims or traffickers may request within this TJJD training facilities at as any well time as the by reporting the Juvenile processes Justice once Training they haveAcademy, been identified.or while coordinating In addition regional training.

For additional information on this training course, please contact Kristy Almager at 512.490.7125 or Chris Ellison at 512.490.7245.

3 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 SPOTLIGHT Vikki Reasor Principal, Gainesville State School justice side, I would say a major We love to travel anywhere, but difference is the way education especially to places where I can and the facility must cooperate and scuba dive! work together to ensure a smooth operation. Thankfully, ours is a very What is the best part of your job? strong team! Knowing beyond a shadow of a What led you to your career in doubt my students feel that my education? What do you see as the biggest teachers truly care about them and Teaching is what I was born to do. challenges for juvenile justice their future and for the short time I believe I was called to be a MOM education? they are with us…someone invested and to TEACH… Our biggest challenge, is trying in their lives and truly gave their all to reach our students where they to show what love and grace look Why did you decide to enter the are, when at times there are large like. We have a small window of field of juvenile justice? educational gaps. We want to give time here to not only teach, but to My Bachelor’s degree is in Deaf each individual student what they remind our students that this is but Education and I started my need, and it becomes challenging one short chapter in the book of career teaching the deaf and then with students on so many levels their lives…there is so much hope moved to special needs kids. I and coming in at all different times for their future. loved working with these kids of the year. and organizing events such as the What advice would you give to a Special Olympics. About 10 years What do you want others to know young educator considering work ago, I had the privilege of doing an about your department? in the juvenile justice field? internship for my master’s degree I have the most dedicated group of Make sure you talk to people who here at Gainesville State School. I teachers & staff I have ever worked are doing the type of work you was hooked! After completion of with in my entire career. These are considering. Don’t go into it my master’s degree and principal teachers have true servant hearts. lightly. It is not for everyone. It is a They genuinely care about our true calling and it is not fair to our a job to open here and as soon as it students and want them to leave students to come into their schools did,certification, I applied I and waited prayed patiently it would for us with the social, academic, and and develop relationships with be mine! vocational skills to accomplish great them for just a short period of time things. The key is that my teachers and then leave them. They deserve What are the biggest differences truly BELIEVE our students can your dedication and commitment. between being an administrator accomplish great things! So please pray about it and talk to in public education versus your family and make sure they feel juvenile justice? When you are not working, how Public administrators obviously do you spend your time? to feel strongly that this is your have more interaction with parents I enjoy spending time with my missionit is a fit in for life you and as your well. ministry! You need If and groups such as cheerleaders husband of 28 years and our three this is your calling, don’t delay! and band which bring a unique children! We have two in college set of challenges. On the juvenile and one is a senior in high school.

4 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 TJJD Co-Hosts Strengthening Youth & Families Conference The 11th Annual Strengthening and Protective Services, Texas for the Randall County Juvenile Youth & Families Conference, Juvenile Justice Department, the Probation Department. held in October at the San Marcos State Volunteer Resource Council Embassy Suites Conference Center, for Texas Youth, Texas Juvenile One of the highlights of the conference was a collaborative educational Justice Providers Association, was an exclusive screening of the and networking event that brought Texas Education Agency, Texas Paper Tigers, produced by together helping professionals, School Safety Center at Texas State James Redford and Karen Pritzker. advocates, educators, service University, Texas A&M University, newPaper film Tigers is a documentary that recipients, and community Texas A&M AgriLife Extension follows the lives of several students in volunteers. Service, and Prairie View A&M an alternative school that specializes University’s Juvenile Crime in educating traumatized youth. Approximately 300 people attended Prevention Center. the conference, which featured Trauma Informed Communities, an array of workshops, keynote Three prominent keynote speakers Thea promising film examines movement the approach in healing of presentations, and networking were featured – Bryan Samuels, youth struggling with Adverse opportunities. Representatives the Executive Director of Chapin Childhood Experiences (ACES). from the following agencies and Hall at the University of Chicago; organizations were present: Health Nan Henderson, an internationally Plans are already underway for the and Human Services Commission recognized author, trainer, and 2016 SYF Conference. For more and Texas System of Care, Texas consultant on fostering human information, contact Tammy Holland Department of State Health Services, resiliency; and Joe Barton, who is at 512-490-7090. Texas Department of Family Deputy Chief of Behavioral Health

The conference was kicked off with an opening general session, in a Approximately 300 people attended the conference. packed room.

Conference participants were able to attend a variety of high-quality Evelyn Delgado, Assistant Commissioner for the Family and Community workshops taught by subject matter experts. Health Services Division of the Texas Department of State Health Services, provided welcoming comments at the luncheon general session.

5 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Conference participants were able to attend a variety of high-quality Conference participants enjoyed a networking reception and meeting workshops taught by subject matter experts. colleagues from across the state.

Conference participants attended an exclusive screening of the Dr. Erin Espinosa (left) is presented the Stella Churchill Mullins Champion documentary Paper Tigers, directed by James Redford and Karen Pritzker. for Children’s Mental Health Award by Holly Vinella (right), daughter of the late Stella Mullins.

Curtis Clay, Associate Director at the Texas School Safety Center for The conference attracted a variety of sponsors and exhibitors, each Educational Training Services, performed the beautiful song “God Bless providing valuable information to participants. the Child” at the closing general session.

6 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Judy Davis Honored as 2015 Rep. Ruth McClendon Honored as 2015 Champion for Outstanding Community Volunteer Juvenile Justice & Deliquency Prevention

Judy Davis, a volunteer at TJJD’s Gainesville The Jimmie Hall Kester Champion for Juvenile Justice & Delinquency State School since July 2002, was presented Prevention Award was presented at the 11th Annual Strengthening the Outstanding Community Volunteer of the Youth & Families Conference to State Representative Ruth Jones Year Award at the 11th Annual Strengthening McClendon. McClendon was recognized as a state leader who has Youth & Families Conference. The award was demonstrated a commitment to excellence in juvenile justice and in presented in October by Tammy Holland, helping communities move forward in the provision of delinquency TJJD’s Manager of Community, Family, and prevention services. Chaplaincy Programs. Representative McClendon has spent her life in the service of others Community volunteers are the heart and and has focused much of her personal and professional efforts in soul of many organizations, and certainly the pursuit of improving the conditions for youth and families. Her seventeen years of service in Bexar County, in the nineteen seventies Juvenile Justice Department. Ms. Davis has contributedmake a significant more than impact 5,600 within service the hours Texas as a mentor, community resource council member, chaplaincy volunteer, co-leader of theirand eighties families as in a the juvenile justice probation system and officer the impact and administrator, of this experience gave her on the grief support group, and tutor. thefirst-hand communities experience where addressing they live. the challenges facing children and

She has mentored more than 20 youth She dedicated much of her energy when serving on the San Antonio City throughout her tenure at the Gainesville Council and later as Mayor pro tempore, from June, 1993 to October, State School. One of these mentee expressed 1996, supporting initiatives that reduced gang violence and expanded his appreciation for Ms. Davis by writing, opportunities for education for youth in need of intervention and “You have been one of my biggest supporters support. Her work continues to address youth, families, and juvenile justice issues on the state level since her election to the Texas House of support. I would be down and out and after Representatives in 1996. visitationin a place Iwhere would it be is renewed.”near impossible to find Altogether, Representative McClendon has authored, sponsored, co- Her support is not just recognized by the sponsored and passed more than 172 bills, excluding resolutions, youth, but also by their family members, as one mother states, “He was shown children who are in need of support through juvenile justice, child unconditional love and acceptance by his welfareduring her and tenure education. in the HerTexas legislative House, many priorities of which include specifically improving help mentor.” for health care for children and the frail and elderly, creating a climate educational opportunities for students throughout the state, fighting counties to implement restorative justice programs, and improving the state’sfor businesses transportation to flourish, system. keeping our neighborhoods safe, enabling

7 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Family Involvement Survey Demonstrates Agency Gains

The focus of TJJD’s Family Liaison entry planning efforts (+11points). 8. services is to increase the family manner when my child is involvement in the rehabilitation The accompanying bar graph Iseriously am notified sick or ininjured a timely of youth by developing, organizing, summarizes the overall satisfaction 9. The case manager has implementing, and overseeing rating (agree and strongly agree) involved me in my child’s family engagement activities of the twelve evaluative questions individual case plan and the at each facility. The agency has among those who responded planning for his/her return moved from family-informed care for secure facilities and halfway to the community. to family-involved care and sees houses. Not all participants families as assets in rehabilitation answered all 12 questions below, 10. TJJD is helping my child efforts and successful community and only the responses for “agree,” make positive changes. re-entry. Family Liaisons coach, “strongly agree,” “disagree,” and 11. I am able to reach staff when educate, support, and encourage “strongly disagree” were included I have questions. family members to participate in in the analysis. Responses of “does and help administer the rehabilitation plan for their youth. Opportunities for family participation come during regularly scheduled campus activities, family-focused seminars and forums, contact and web-based visitation, and multi-disciplinary team meetings.

In March 2008, TJJD administered the

survey to families firstregarding satisfaction their perception of TJJD services. Those survey results not apply” were excluded from the 12. I am treated with respect established a baseline from which results. when I visit TJJD facilities. to measure improvements. In an effort to boost participation, this Family members were asked to 13. Grievances that my child has year’s survey was accessible on- indicate their level of satisfaction line throughout the collection to the following questions: and fair manner. period of September 1, 2014 14. Myfiled child are ishandled safe at thein a current timely through August 31, 2015. The 5. My child has made progress TJJD facility. questions showing the greatest in education while in TJJD 15. My child is given the improvement regarded the 6. My child receives the assistance of the family liaisons opportunity to worship in necessary medical the religion of his/her choice. in communicating the youths’ treatment. needs to other staff (+26 points), 16. The family liaison assists me 7. I get timely responses to my in communicating my child’s child is ill/injured (+12 points), questions about my child’s needs to other TJJD staff. receivingand including notifications the family when in their re- medical care.

8 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 AMIKids-Rio Grande Valley: TJJD’s Residential Provider of the Year! AMIKids- Rio Grande Valley is a maintenance. Education services medium-restriction/non-secure are provided on-site by the local residential program located in independent school district. Los Fresnos, TX. AMIKids serve male youth 10-18 years of age. In Fiscal Year 2015, AMIKids was The program provides individual among eight residential providers and group counseling services; under contract with TJJD. AMIKids alcohol and other drug (AOD) was selected as the provider of the treatment (moderate); Aggression year based on contract compliance of Family & Protective Services and Replacement Training®; basic and performance outcomes. The has been contracting with TJJD carpentry, welding, and basic program is licensed by Department since 1985.

Harris County Juvenile Probation Department and Disability Rights, Texas Form Partnership Submitted by the Harris County incidents that occurred at school. staff works with schools to improve Juvenile Probation Department For some youth, the incident that educational plans for students. brought them to court may have Additionally, DRTx will accept The Harris County Juvenile Probation been prevented with improved referrals for legal representation, Department has forged a partnership behavior supports. Parents of youth if probation encounters efforts to with Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) in the juvenile justice system are to help improve educational often unaware of their rights and resolve concerns about a student’s outcomes for youth involved with how to collaborate with schools and educationalsupport the familyplan. areThis insufficient partnership to probation. Nationally, 60-70% of advocate for their child to ensure emerged after Harris County youth in the juvenile justice system appropriate educational services. probation leaders visited a model have a diagnosable mental health program in Chicago where Equip condition and almost 30% have Through this partnership, Harris for Equality, a sister organization a serious disorder that requires County Juvenile Probation of DRTx, works with probation Department and DRTx strive to in a similar partnership that has (National Center for Mental Health equip parents and families with the successfully improved outcomes for andimmediate Juvenile significantJustice, 2006). treatment These resources to effectively partner with youth in Cook County. Both DRTx and students are entitled to important their child’s school and advocate Harris County probation are excited protections and behavioral supports for the services schools can provide that the partnership in Houston will under either special education or 504 to improve student outcomes for plans, depending on the severity of youth who are diverted from court, youth of our county. their disability. Unfortunately, many receiving services in a detention have similar positive benefits for the students have never been properly or JJAEP setting, or returning to Disability Rights Texas is the their community schools. DRTx federally designated legal protection that allow them to make academic has already trained juvenile and advocacy agency (P&A) for andidentified, behavioral or received progress. the As servicesa result, probation staff and is planning to people with disabilities in Texas. students with disabilities are more offer additional training to youth DRTx’s mission is to help people with than twice as likely to be expelled and families. DRTx attorneys and disabilities understand and exercise than their typically developing advocates are making themselves their rights under the law, ensuring classmates, and many students are available to answer technical their full and equal participation in referred to juvenile court due to questions that arise while probation society.

Rescources and videos are available at www.drtx.org. Families can request assistance advocating for special education services by calling DRTx intake at 800-252-9108 or completing the online intake form.

9 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 SPOTLIGHT Bill Austin Wise and Jack counties Chief Juvenile Probation Officer

and Jack counties. We also have strengths and we coordinate our life skills using equine-assisted psychotherapy, individual and families with their unique What led you to your career in counseling with three LPCs, issues.efforts to find solutions for children juvenile justice? I grew up with a desire to help detention alternatives (an intensive When you are not working, how others and my college years were supervisionRedirection forwith first a offenders,contract do you spend your time? directed toward working with employee) and community A fantastic wife of 35 years and I teenagers. Subsequent to an service restitution. All programs spend time with six grandchildren internship with the Abilene Boys are effective with some but the ranging in age from seven to 17. Club, one of my professors talked passionate people involved with Volleyball, softball, cheerleading with me about juvenile probation. children and families are key to and more. I partnered with two After graduation, I applied with the success in each program. friends raising and training quarter late Lynn Ross at the Tarrant County horses for 30-plus years. But Juvenile Probation Department and What do you see as the biggest began my career on January 15, challenges for juvenile justice in my wife is a joyful activity. Our faith 1991. Texas? andcurrently, church fishing is a andhuge traveling part of with our Mental health problems are rising lives. What types of facilities do you both in numbers of referrals and operate? intensity, requiring more innovative What is the best part of your job? While our department doesn’t and intensive work by probation Consulting and discussing operate any facilities, we do departments. Quality treatment, individual cases with probation contract with several residential whether inpatient or outpatient, is treatment programs both in- bringing about positive change in and out-of-state. The juvenile kids’officers lives. and other professionals in supports our quest to place youth Areexpensive there and any often changes difficult that to find. you in residential programs that best are considering in your county? What advice would you give to meets their needs regardless of We will partner with other a young new juvenile justice location. departments to provide services professional? for youth with common needs. Keep your eyes on the goal, always What programs do you feel have look for the good in people and proven most successful? What do you want others to know believe that positive change can The substance abuse program about your department? and will happen. Use your training, is a favorite primarily due to the A phenomenal staff! We work surround yourself with positive expertise and passion of Debbie as a team with many different people and seek God’s counsel. Cashon, the remarkable lady assignments toward a common Remember that we are all spiritual who runs our program in Wise goal. We have people with different beings!

10 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 TJJD Hosts PREA Audit Readiness Conference On September 28-30, 2015, facilities at no cost to the county a good collaboration.” The Bell TJJD’s PREA Compliance Division for those counties that expressed County Juvenile Services Center hosted a statewide PREA Audit an interest in having a PREA audit. was also audited in September. Readiness training in Austin at the Jerome and Lisa will be conducting Director Susan Humphrey found Omni Southpark Hotel. Attendees audits in 13 counties covering 19 the PREA audit to be a paradigm included 87 PREA Coordinators, juvenile facilities in total. TJJD has shift from traditional correctional PREA Compliance Managers, also contracted with six private audits. She explained, “For as much Facility Administrators and facility PREA auditors to complete an as we prepared, we underestimated staff from state and local juvenile additional 20 audits in county the level of detail of a PREA audit. facilities across Texas. The focus facilities during 2016. TJJD It’s not just ‘checking the box.’ It’s of this three-day intensive training Executive Director David Reilly explaining what the box represents was helping facilities understand explained why it is important for and why you checked it. And it’s the PREA audit requirements, TJJD to conduct PREA audits, “TJJD ensuring that all your staff has the audit process and prepare believes that the PREA standards the same understanding of the for upcoming audits to ensure are smart correctional practice for box. Lisa Capers provided us with compliance with the PREA all juvenile facilities and we are much assistance throughout the standards. TJJD staff Lisa Capers committed to supporting PREA week of our audit and was great and Jerome Williams, Department compliance. Assisting the counties at providing feedback each and in securing PREA audits is a critical every day while she was here. conducted the training along with step to ensure and enhance the We’ve also had frequent and helpful ofseveral Justice guest Certified speakers PREA includingAuditors, sexual safety of youth.” communications leading up to Elizabeth Henneke, Policy Attorney and following the audit as well.“ for the Texas Criminal Justice Several departments across the Lubbock County was audited in Coalition, and Keisha C. Martinez, state opted to have their audit November and TJJD will resume LPC-S, Clinical Services Director at done this fall. Denton County was the PREA audits in the counties Out Youth Austin. beginning with Bexar County in TJJD PREA auditors in August of January of 2016. Kimbla Newsom, TJJD Begins PREA Audits thethis firstyear. county Two offacility Dallas audited County’s by Youth Services Contracts Manager, four facilities were audited in for Counties September by Jerome Williams. will assist Jerome and Lisa with TJJD’s PREA Compliance Division Dr. Terry Smith, Director in Dallas alsothe audits a Certified in the larger PREA facilities Auditor, began conducting audits of the County found the audit experience in 2016 including four facilities federal Prison Rape Elimination to be a positive process stating, in Harris County. Additionally, Act standards in county-operated “While any audit can be anxiety Teresa Stroud, Senior Director juvenile facilities in August of producing…we were glad to be the of State Programs and Facilities, 2015. The PREA standards “pilot” county. The lessons learned who recently completed the PREA became effective on August 19, and the feedback received will only Auditor Training in San Diego, ensure we are meeting compliance California, will be conducting August 20, 2013 and will conclude for our Department. This was audits in select counties. 2012.on August The 19,first 2016. audit cycleAll juvenile began facilities nationwide are required to have an audit during the three year audit cycle. Jerome Williams, PREA Compliance Administrator and Lisa Capers, Senior Director of Training and Organizational Development, both Department

will be conducting PREA audits of Justiceselect countyCertified juvenile PREA Auditors,facilities statewide through August of 2016. TJJD is providing audits to county TJJD’s PREA Auditors: Kimbla Newsom, Teresa Stroud, Lisa Capers, and Jerome Williams.

11 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 TJJD Kicks Off Tattoo Removal Program an initial consultation with the Medical Director, at which time a treatment plan will be developed.

will be doing the tattoo removal Qualifiedservices. and trained technicians

Complete removal of a tattoo may require three to six sessions. Sessions are scheduled at six to eight week intervals. There will be some expectations of youth to participate in this program. For example, a youth will be removed from this service if he acquires additional tattoos or for being The TJJD tattoo removal program her case manager for tattoo noncompliant with aftercare. removal. The case manager While the program will begin with removal clinic is scheduled for will then take the request to the youth at Giddings State School, it beginsJanuary this 28, month,2016 at withthe Giddings the first Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) will expand it to other facilities in State School. The program will for review. Once MDT approves the near future. have the use of the latest laser the request, consents from youth tattoo removal machine that is less and parents will be obtained. This is an exciting opportunity for invasive than previous machine Priority for removal services is our youth and for TJJD and this and requires minimal wound care. given to tattoos that are visible on the hands, arms, face, or neck, or their chances for success when To utilize this service, a youth programthey return will to significantly their communities. improve must make a request to his/ Then youth will be scheduled for those that reflect gang affiliation. Evins Staff and Volunteers Share Thanksgiving With Families Pictured (standing left to right) are Family Liaison Elva Benitez and community volunteers Fernando Pacheco and Esteban Sanchez who are being thanked by family members of a youth at Evins that they sponsored with an overnight stay at a local hotel. In addition, the Evins Volunteer Council assisted with a gift gas card allowance to make the trip possible. The family attended the Annual Volunteer “Feast of Sharing” Thanksgiving meal and traveled more 1,200 miles round trip from their home town. Thirty-two turkeys were cooked for the event and more than 100 volunteers helped serve over 500 plates for the event.

12 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 TJJD Utilizes Technology to Bring Families Together

In 2013 the Vera Institute, in conjunction with Families as Partners in Ohio, concluded a research

visitation is associated with improved youth behaviorproject in and which improved findings school supported performance that family of

that correctional facilities should try to change theirincarcerated visitation youth. policy Theseto promote findings more suggested frequent visitation with families. Because Texas is such a large state and cost of travel is sometimes prohibitive for our families, in 2013 the Family Supports Department began a focus on virtual family visits with their youth. In FY 2015, 188 webcam sessions connected youth with their family members who were unable to visit their facility.

offering virtual family visits. Most recently the San TJJD parole offices are playing an important role in Day on December 19, 2015. They had 15 family members participate to virtually visit with their 5 youth, someAntonio of whomDistrict had office not partnered seen their with child Ron since Jackson commitment. to conduct Light their refreshments 1st Family Connections were served Web and Cameach Family family received a food goody bag donated by our local Food Bank. We hope that by encouraging and supporting more family engagement, these youth will utilize that positive energy in their rehabilitation process. There were many tears of happiness and we look forward to continuing to offer these services to our youth and their families.

13 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Willoughby House Christmas

Willoughby House youth in Fort Family Relations Coordinator passionate about working with Worth were treated to a Christmas Denise Caldwell noted that our youth because he believes in party and celebration with from their potential. The Potter’s House – Fort Worth in education and seems very Ministries. The youth were part Pastor Winfield has a background of The Potter’s House angel tree and each received almost all of the gifts on their wish list. Youth also received numerous gifts from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who have reached out to Willoughby, in hopes of a partnership.

Willoughby House Superintendent Diane Eunice said, “The Potter’s House has an exceptional group of men, who have been very generous with their time, during the Thanksgiving (they brought Christams Party and served the youth Thanksgiving dinner) and Christmas holidays.”

One of the highlights for youth was being invited to audition for The Potter’s House Christmas Production for non-speaking roles as angels. Two of the youth were selected to participate.

Another youth was given the opportunity for a guitar audition with Ms. Crystal Aikin, the Season 1 winner of the current television show Sunday Best. According to Willoughby House Assistant Willoughby House “Angels” Superintendent Felicia Reynolds, “We really appreciate them giving this youth an opportunity to showcase his talent and it was a great self-esteem booster for him. Prior to his audition, they loaned him a guitar to practice with during his recreational time and days off from work.”

of the holiday efforts is that Anotherseveral members benefit of to The come Potter’s out House, including Pastor Patrick

in volunteering with Willoughby Winfield,youth, including have expressed partnering interest in future events. Community and Willoughby youth with guitar (far right)

14 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Upcoming TJJD Sponsored or Co-Sponsored Trainings and Webinars

Thinking for a Change 29th Annual Juvenile Law Conference January 19-20, 2016 February 22-24, 2016 (15.50 Hours) Texas Juvenile Justice Department - Galveston, TX Wyndham Riverwalk Hotel - San Antonio, TX Check TJJD website to register Click here for conference brochure.

Webinar: MAYSI-2 Regional Trainings (East Texas) January 27, 2016 February 22-26, 2016 (26.00 Hours) Texas Juvenile Justice Department - Austin, TX Smith County Juvenile Probation - Tyler, TX Click here to register Click here for additional details or to register.

Webinar: Texas Schools, Bullying and the Law Juvenile Probation Officer Basic Training February 9, 2016 April 10-15, 2016 (40.00 Hours) Texas Juvenile Justice Department - Austin, TX Sam Houston State University - Huntsville, TX Check TJJD website to register Click here for additional details or to register.

Webinar: Courtroom Demeanor Training Coordinators’ Conference March 1, 2016 May 2-4, 2016 Texas Juvenile Justice Department - Austin, TX Crowne Plaza Hotel - Austin, TX *Stay tuned for additional details* Click here to register Juvenile Probation Officer Basic Training Webinar: Wraparound Services July 10-15, 2016 (40.00 Hours) March 3, 2016 Sam Houston State University - Huntsville, TX Texas Juvenile Justice Department - Austin, TX Click here for additional details or to register. Check TJJD website to register 2016 Chief Probation Officers Conference Trauma Informed Care Training for Trainers October 2-5, 2016 (Hours TBD) February 1-2, 2016 (15.50 Hours) Galveston Convention Center and San Luis Hotel - Tarrant County Juvenile Probation - Fort Worth, TX Galveston, TX Click here for additional details or to register Click here for additional details or to register.

Regional Training Officer Planning Session 2017 Chief Probation Officers Conference February 16-18, 2016 (Hours TBD) October 1-4, 2017 (Hours TBD) Sam Houston State University - Huntsville, TX Galveston Convention Center and San Luis Hotel - Click here for additional details or to register Galveston, TX Click here for additional details or to register.

15 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Employees Receiving Tenure Awards TJJD would like to recognize the following employees who have received a tenure award since November 2015. On behalf of the agency, we extend our sincerest gratitude and appreciation for their dedication and service to the State of Texas.

November 2015 FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE FIFTEEN YEARS OF SERVICE Adrian B. Jones McFadden Ranch Carl M. Smotherman McLennan RTC Christy L. Watson McLennan CSJCF Darrell S. Lewis McLennan CSJCF David I. Whitson Ron Jackson DeLana D. Smethers Ron Jackson Deborah K. Unruh Austin (Ombudsman) Diana C. Sawyers Austin (Technology) Dwight A. Sadler Austin (Ombudsman) Joseph W. Inman Evins Frederick D. Clemmons McFadden Ranch LaSonda Dials McLennan RTC Frederick D. Mask Gainesville Richard Pineda Gainesville Iyesha S. Bellard Giddings Sheba L. Graves Giddings James R. Williams Giddings Yolanda D. Walker McLennan CSJCF Jarrett R. Massey Giddings TWENTY YEARS OF SERVICE Juan C. Fernandez Schaeffer HWH Abelardo Jimenez Ron Jackson Roxanne S. Martinez McFadden Ranch Gertie M. Calhoun Gainesville Victor O. Hughes McLennan CSJCF Kenneth M. Costilla Austin (Finance) TEN YEARS OF SERVICE Ronald A. Bayo Austin (Finance) Charlene M. Hunter Lane Giddings Shawna J. Dennis-Lucius Gainesville Mary M. Perez Ron Jackson Sherry G. Britton Ron Jackson Natasha E. Brown McLennan CSJCF TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE Royce R. Myers Austin (Human Resources) David A. Horn McLennan CSJCF Raul C. Gonzalez Ron Jackson Suzi C. Rowan Austin (Finance)

December 2015 FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE FIFTEEN YEARS OF SERVICE Alba Peña Austin Jaime M. Liscano Giddings (Communications) Gail Y. Thomas McLennan RTC Cheryse C. White Ron Jackson David E. Ortega Tamayo HWH Dennis R. Moseley Ron Jackson Bonnie J. Terpening Ron Jackson TWENTY YEARS OF SERVICE Beverley W. Dalco Giddings William A. Klein Austin (Legal Services) Derrick R. Mitchell Giddings Glenda S. Jackson Gainesville Marisol Hernandez Giddings Karen A. Forman McLennan CSJCF Magdalena Macias Evins Carol D. McDonald McLennan CSJCF Mealika D. Brown McLennan CSJCF Cynthia R. Williams Ayres HWH Angela D. Fritts Austin (Inspector General’s Office) TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE TEN YEARS OF SERVICE Gary L. Vaughn Ron Jackson Luis Limon Ron Jackson Jack T. Fletcher Ron Jackson Steven J. Martinez Evins Belma Salinas Evins Carol A. Thomas McLennan CSJCF THIRTY YEARS OF SERVICE Ronald Bailey McLennan Phoenix Catherine Crenshaw Giddings

16 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016 Employees Receiving Tenure Awards

Continued from page 16

January 2016 FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE Erica Garcia Ron Jackson Noah J. Contreras Evins TEN YEARS OF SERVICE Alan Hernandez Schaeffer HWH Angela D. Mitchell Austin (Internal Audit) Angela M. Haynes McLennan Phoenix Aurelio Jimenez Schaeffer HWH Deborah D. Satchell McLennan CSJCF Kevin E. Josey Cottrell HWH Mildred B. Ford McLennan CSJCF Rachael O. Kapur Austin (Monitoring and Inspections) Shelia D. Jacques Gainesville FIFTEEN YEARS OF SERVICE Christina Lozano Evins Karen S. Trevino Ron Jackson O&A Latonia Y. Lewis McLennan Phoenix Marcus E. Nelson McLennan RTC Oralia Hernandez McLennan Phoenix Regina S. Davis McLennan CSJCF Tanya M. Hall Brownwood HWH Theresa U. Odiase Willoughby HWH TWENTY YEARS OF SERVICE Colleen L. Levi McLennan CSJCF Mary K. Pearson Gainesville Randy Martinez York HWH Tammara D. McGowan McLennan CSJCF TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE Lory L. Alexander Austin (Finance) Robin L. Black McLennan RTC THIRTY YEARS OF SERVICE Glenn A. Kurio Giddings

17 TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE TODAY | JANUARY 2016