A recent Administrator Memo released by the Division of Juvenile Corrections outlines some of the changes occurring as the result of consolidating three juvenile correctional institutions into one location – at Lincoln Hills School (LHS). While practical challenges remain as a result of the distance from Lincoln Hills to where most of the youth are from, the Memo reflects thoughtful choices being made in order to deliver high-quality services to incarcerated youth. Changes of note include:
(1) Revisions to the former Cadet Achievement Program – changing its name to PRIDE and reflecting a greater emphasis on education and reduced emphasis on the prior “military style” activities;
(2) Increasing the use and reliance on evidence-based and well-researched programs, e.g. cognitive interventions, victim impact programming, and trauma-informed treatment;
(3) Receiving approval from the American Psychological Association to re-established the psychology internship program at Lincoln Hills – this unique and highly regarded program will be led by Dr. Rick Miller who is transferring from Southern Oaks and his highly regarded for his vision and expertise in working with youth with mental health issues;
(4) Offering Aggression Replacement Training (ART) groups for boys @ LHS;
(5) Offering opportunities for girls for focused, experiential learning @ the Horseshoe Lake property adjacent to LHS.
As of this past week, all youth have been physically transferred to the LHS/Copper Lake program. New staff are hired and either have or are in the process of completing their basic training, and the consolidation is progressing well. The program design elements highlighted above reflect a commitment to using what we know is likely to produce better outcomes for youth and our communities.
Jim Moeser
