This was my second or third visit to the Juvenile Detention Center and I personally always learn something. I thing my group talked quite heavily about was the educational system and how it worked exactly. I am glad to see that even though these kids may make a mistake we are still willing to help them and even reward them in some cases. I really like the "shirt" system that the Juvenile Center has in place it helps these kids work for something they want and achieve that goal. It also helps the kids start to reestablish a "normal" way of living I think. Giving a kid more and more freedom and letting them do what they want helps them prepare for their release and makes the change almost seamlessly. These tours are always a great way to learn. You can only learn so much by a book or by and experienced teacher but you really don't know that this is something you can and or want to do until you get out there see what it is like and live it and get your feet wet in this profession. I believe that to be true about any profession how do you know that you really want to do something without even doing it first or even seeing what it is like? You can't really. That is why the earlier you get out there and actually live it or do that job or that thing you want to do really bad the better it is for you. One because you know what to expect and you can start thinking on how you would attack or take care of those specific issues or situations. This was another great tour and I am very lucky to have been able to attend these and I look forward to more down the road and eventually jumping right into something along these lines as my full time and regular job. NDIrish123.
I, honestly, enjoyed this opportunity we had. It gives us all a great insight on what people that work in this specific field deal with and even what people who are sent here deal with. I like how the person we were given answered all of our questions thoroughly and to where we could all understand. One of the first things we discussed was education. I think education is very important and is something that everyone needs. Even though kids are put in this facility, doesn’t mean they are not wanting to further better themselves. I am sure not all of them that are in there, is their fault for being sent there so they try their best to get out of there as fast as they can. Which is why the whole different colored shirts they have is such a great idea. It proves to those kids who are lost that everyone that is there, are wanting to help them and lead them in the right direction. Another topic that was brought up in our group was transgender and which part they would be sent to. The facility respects their wishes and goes by what they want. And this is a very touchy subject so it can be difficult in deciding. Another thing I learned was that they have recently started making it to where they each get their own room. If it comes down to where they don’t have the space and they have to share then that’s understandable. But if they have the room, then it’s nice that they get their own space. All in all, I think these kids deserve chances. Everyone makes mistakes so the things they teach them there is great! Schmidt789
While I’ve never stepped foot in any jail like institutions I was very excited when this opportunity presented itself. Tonight was eye opening for me, to know that both boys and girls shared the same pod, although not sleeping quarters was an interesting fact. The criminal offenses were minor and it allowed for socialization even in a controlled setting. Restorative justice was a new term for me as well, this is when the offender, victim and their family hash out any wrong doings and basically forgive one another. Oh and the five minute time out for disobeying the rules along with consequences for each action helps the juvenilles learn a sense of responsibilty or minimize tension/agressive behavior. The number of inmates were surprising low, I thought there would be an influx of juvenilles looking on the outside in. If given the opportunity I’d do this tour again and would love to tour the county jail one day. Thanks for the experience, it’s one I will not forget! mummyoftwo789
I had been to the Juvenile Correctional Center not for an educational reason. So it was actually a very nice visit and she was very informational. And it was more like rehab which I thought was different considering most prisons and jails are designed to keep you back there and get you back in. But I feel like they do not want to see them in there and that is good that they do the education there and let them have gym and do arts and crafts it helps them to know that they are still human beings and that just because you made a mistake does not mean that you are that mistake. And it helps make it easier for when they transition back in the real world they know how to adapt and can work and function in the whole world which is something they do not really do in the other prisons I have been too. And they also seem to actually care for the kids that are there and do not treat them as if they are animals and they make sure they are taken care of and yes actions have consequences but they do not define you. Buttercup789
This was my first trip to the juvenile detention center and i was very pleased at what i learned and saw throughout the tour. One of the main things that i thought was very good about the detention center is the fact that they are really practicing restorative justice there. As we have talked about in class all semester long, being able to teach these juveniles how to be better citizens for when they are released should be one of the main goals. The detention center is very good at practicing this by giving these juveniles the opportunity to go to school to learn and better their education during their sentences as well as work on their social and people skills through focus groups and other programs. The detention center itself was also very well kept and felt more like a school than a correctional facility. One thing that is very great about this institution is that they offer programs that can hep these kids when they are given their second chance when they are released, which is something we have also discussed in class on many occasions. It was very nice to see the types of restorative justice at work in person that we have discussed in the classroom all throughout the semester. Pack123
We have all seen the films that show how they picture these kinds of institutions. Always dark, dreary, and lonely with the staff members showing no compassion. When it comes to the topic of the criminal justice system, thinking it is a harsh and straight forward world is common. With what I witnessed today, was just the opposite of these typical stereotypes. Although these young kids committed deviant acts that landed them in a detention center, their end goal is typically similar to one another. The compassion the employees expressed in the tour, was inspiring. They just want to make sure these kids do not gain an incredibly pessimistic stigma, so they can move on with their lives and are able to grow up with a normal life. These types of systems and or institutions are meant to help children who have entered into this facility by using deterrence. Being around these primary groups, or people they will be surrounded by for days on end, could also help their healing process. It is truly amazing how the government figured out how to create these institutions to help trouble teens and even kids younger than the teens. Both the jail tour and the juvenile detention center tour, has opened my eyes and become a very education experience. I hope many others will get to experience what we did today, as well. MelRich895
This was my first visit to the juvenile detention center. Overall I liked the environment of the building it felt more like a rehabilitation then a place for punishment which was awesome. The detention center looked a lot bigger on the outside then the inside. I thought they would have had more staff then what they had on hand being the ration was 1/8. I did not realize that the juvenile detention center was for ages 10 to 17 and they don’t go to the county jail till they reach 18. Plus, the whole day was planned from the beginning to the end. What caught me off guard was the education not do anything for you unless you work with the school you were going to beforehand for credits towards a degree. Plus, I loved how they had the kids sitting in a circle share their thoughts and feeling to other to possible make social attachments and bonds with others to rid of the anti-social aspect like Travis Hirschi. This was a eye opener I did not realize that they had to have a bachelors degree to work there, plus that control room looks terrible too much for one person to focus on and in the line of work this is you need to be focus and have attention to detail. Jeeper123
I completely agree with you about how the place seemed more like a place for rehabilitation than a detention center. I was honestly surprised because I was expecting barred cells, tile or concrete floor, less colorful walls and more harsher punishments, but instead, we saw carpeted floors, positive words on the walls, doors on the cells and not bars and punishments that, though befitted a five-year-old, was more gentle and possibly more effective than just beating them up and restraining them all the time. It gave me a lot of respect for the juvenile justice system of Peoria county. I had heard from our tour guide that there were much bigger juvenile halls in the state that aren't necessarily as nice as this one, or as rehabilitative. In a way, it made me slightly excited to be a part of something like that in the later future. Even though we had heard so many stories about things gone wrong, it didn’t scare me away from my desire to become a police officer even. The bad comes with the good and no matter what profession you are in when it comes to criminal justice, there will always be bad situations. However, Im looking forward more to the chances to help kids like them or even adults in trying to rehabilitate or teach them how to be a functioning part of society again. SomethingProfound123
Going to the juvenile detention center was an eye opening experience for me and probably everybody else who went. This was the first time I have ever been in a juvenile detention center and the main point of the center is to rehab the juvenile and make sure that the well being of the juvenile is safe, like what we have been saying for the whole semester. When talking about how they handle kids who don’t follow the rules, they said they first give them a five minute time out and if they don’t take the time out they make them go to their room for thirty minutes with nothing in there and sit quietly, then they have to do a five minute time out. After hearing about the time outs, I figured they probably only work half the time, since a lot of the juveniles are close to being adults, but they said the time outs work about eighty five percent of the time, which is good. Also they said they have about thirty five juveniles in the center and other places around the area only have about twenty. I figured that this number would be higher, but it looks like we are starting to help the child instead of locking them up. All of the staff that was there seemed really friendly and seemed to really care about the children and wants what is best for them. This was really a great experience that I don’t think I will ever forget. Illini123 Illini456
That was an invigorating experience, to be able to see first-hand the juvenile detention center in action. the place seemed more like a place for rehabilitation than a detention center. It was nothing like I was expecting it to be. It was more like a rehabilitation center than a detention center where they were being sent to be punished. Expected regular prison cells with bars on them, tile or concrete floor with signs of damage and struggle, blank and cold walls and more harsher punishments with less chances for education, but instead, they had carpeted floors, positive words and pictures on the walls, doors on the cells with all of them having only one person to a cell and no bars anywhere to be found. What shocked me was that they had abnormal punishments. They were punishments that, though befitted a five-year-old, was more gentle and possibly more effective than just beating them up and restraining them all the time. They sat them in time out and made them think about their actions. I figured it would be something that would be ineffective but actually has seemed to work for some of the kids; which is good. It gave me a lot of respect for the juvenile justice system of Peoria county. In comparison to some of the much larger juvenile halls in the state, they are deemed more appropriate in the way they do things. I can’t wait to get my degree because now I know that even if I don’t become a police officer, I can do just as much good working in a place like that, helping people in just as direct of a way. I’m not really frightened by the stories they tell in regards to the kids acting out of getting violent. That is something that is expected regardless. SomethingProfound123
The juvenile tour was completely different than what I expected. Immediately when I walked in I was shocked that we had to walk through a metal detector but at the jail we did not have to also take off our scarves, hats, and jackets which to me seemed kind of odd walking into a juvenile detention center. The officers that are supervising the students are not allowed to carry any weapons only walkie talkies and also showed nothing but respect for the residents to where they don't even acknowledge the juveniles as inmates they call them residents.The first place we stopped was the education center which was interesting for me to learn about because they keep the children on a busy schedule all day starting with breakfast at 7:15 then classes starting at 8. I thought it was great for the kids that they do continue their education while they are serving time in this center and even when they are released all their work they did while in the care of the juvenile center transfers over when they continue their regular education. Overall the juvenile detention center was very clean and quiet. I liked the fact that the employees do not dress as police officers but casually because they want the juveniles in an environment where they are comfortable enough for rehabilitation. While walking through the pods and observing where the juveniles sleep they all get a room to themselves and they shower by themselves and this was because the Peoria Juvenile detention center has PREA where they really take sexual assault very serious and they want to avoid having that specific problem at all costs. Learning about the 3 different color t shirts the residents could earn for more incentatives so they could keep their good behavior up. swaggyy456
This was my first tour of the Juvenile Detention Center and I really enjoyed it. First thing I learned about was the education part, I didn't know about them having to go to school Monday through Thursday. A thing I found interesting, and it may just because of the jail being different, that the boys and girls interact with each other instead of the jail where they have to be out of sight and sound. I was really glad that one of the boys from BPod came out and talked to us and told us his thoughts of the Juvenile Detention Center and gave us more insight about the facility itself and other kids that are in there with him, like how he said that there was a boy in there that had talked to him about his home life and how he rather be in the system then at his home. It opened my eyes and tugged at my heart to hear that or the story that our tour lady told my group that she had a boy walk from the Harrison Homes all the way to the Juvenile Detention Center, hoping he had a warrant because his foster parents had kicked him out and he hadn't eaten in three days. Another thing that I thought was interesting was that if a resident didn't feel comfortable or didn't want to talk to one of the staff members or the mental health help, that they could use the blue phone and call the abuse hotline and talk to them. Another thing I learned that I didn't know that was if even if the resident was 17 or older and had a juvenile offense they still had to come to the juvenile detention center to serve their time for that offense. Walking through and hearing more about it, I thought that the juvenile detention center was more of like a rehabilitation more then an actual detention center. I was glad that I had the opportunity to take this tour and learn more about it the juvenile detention center because I didn't know anything about it. FoxRacing456
This is my first time visiting a Juvenile Detention Center and I enjoyed the opportunity that I had to visit one. Our tour guide who is one of the supervisors told us that there are 34 young offenders who are in the center, which is low and a good number for them. The pods they had is a look-alike of the jail and males and females are being separated. They had a small medical facility which provides dental, health, and medication to youth. They have a psychologist who comes in to check on the youth twice a week. I like that education is being given to the youth because it is the very most important, helpful and something that everyone needs and was given gym time hours, making arts and crafts that helps them to stay interacted to one another. The way of their booking a young offender is called intake which includes body search, mug shot, examined by medical stuff etc. and if needed and requested they are being tested for sexually transmitted diseases. She mentioned that some young offenders just walk-in to surrender because they have nowhere to go. Also, the center is fully accredited not just regularly but with high standard, they also have a contract with ERS (Emergency Response Service) and OSF and the detention center is open 24 hours. I like the shirt color system that the detention center is implementing and the way of giving them five-minute time out for disobeying rules, minimize tension and aggressive behavior. I like how the staff cares and treats them nicely which everybody needs even though you make mistakes. -M.Scott456
My experience at the juvenile detention center was a lot better than I expected I learned so much about the facility and what goes on inside. Such as the kids are able to get education while in there, they also are able to get really good meals. If kids misbehave they get put in 5-minute time outs if they choose to not take the time out they get a 30 and 5 which is 30 minutes in their room and then they get to serve their 5-minute time out. What I found that was awesome was they are able to have Physical education classes and they have 2 gyms they can mess around in. One thing I found sort of disturbing is that there is a chance that the kids will end up raping others in the bathrooms or any place that there is no cameras to see them such as class rooms or spots in the facility that are blind. All and all I enjoyed the tour seeing what happens in there and getting to see actually kids in the facility made the experience much more interesting and it hit a part of me that is telling me that if I mess up I can end up in the same spot as these kids. CarlBaconWho456
Going to the detention center was informational. One thing I learned was that children did not have to be out of sight/out of hear when it came to boys vs. girls. I enjoyed being able to go through and having things explained like the education, mental health problems with children, the health clinic, gym time, all the way to eating in a family style. I enjoyed learning that when it came to the health clinic that the young adults are offered every testing that there is and the rights to medication. It was interesting when the lady mentioned that sometimes kids only go to the doctors when they go to the detention center because families just don’t them. Another thing I enjoyed was the restorative justice part they did. Although we did not get to chime in, it was still nice knowing that what they did to solve problems or talk problems out with each other. Toward the end I wish I would have asked more questions with the scoring system because I feel that is where I don’t agree with it, especially knowing that they are at such low numbers as the lady stated. The scoring system I question because when kids are involved in crime and police show and no punishment is taken, it’s teaching them that they can get away with what they just did which can lead them to keep doing what they are. Another thing is that kids are going to slowly start to learn what can and cannot do to get themselves scored into the system. One last thing I enjoyed was that when children are on suicide watch, they are checked on every four minutes vs. adults its every 30 minutes. unknownzeeha456/789
Well, this was my first time going to the JDC ever and i was pretty amazed. I would’ve thought it would be much bigger than what it was actually was. I didn’t know that the kids that are in there still get the school opportunity just like the kids that are actually in school. The kids that are in there are just like any other kids that are teenagers who are acting out. But, I can say that the “time outs” are a little childish. I wouldn’t think that the 5 minute time out would make them behave any more if they don’t want to. I can say that the instructors are pretty strict on the kids. They do take into consideration for the kids who have ADHD. It was really neat how the residents can earn point to be able to buy other food that they want. They can also buy some time to play longer. One thing that I found very odd is why the residents can’t sleep all day if they wanted to. That was on of my questions that I had asked. They aren’t allowed to sleep, when the people in charge say to get up they have to get up. If they do choose to sleep all day it goes under disobeying and they would get a timeout. Me personally thinks that is really weird because I would want to sleep all day. Their rooms are really cold and small. Their rooms that they sleep in looks very uncomfortable, their beds is like a block of cement with the mattress. The jail to me just looks like a big high school, they still do everything that the other students do who are in actual school. The girls that are there are really feisty, two of the girls jumped at me just for looking at them, so I could only imagine what they do to the other girls that are in there with them that looks at them. WS123
Visiting the juvenile detention center was a great experience and I learned a lot. I feel that it is great that they give the children a chance to get their education, that could help them a lot in the future. I learned that the boys and the girls share pods which I never knew and also if the kids are misbehaving they get a 5 minute time out. I think it's great that they aren't so harsh on the kids and actually preparing them for when they do get out of jail. Crown789
While I toured the juvenile detention center I learned so much information. To start,I was surprised on how strict they were with every individual that entered the building. Us students could not even wear a hat, scarf, jacket or anything more than normal clothes on our body. It confused me at first, considering the jail was not that strict. The next thing that I learned was the schooling that is taken place within the detention center. They basically have normal school days just like us, and a summer break of six weeks. They also get gym time, which I was expecting. Although, what made me a little sad was their living areas. The minor is only allowed a mattress, sheet, two blankets, a pillow and hygiene items inside their bedroom. The reason it made me a little sad is because there are some young children in there. I know when I was a child I was attached to a certain item, to give me comfort. But they can't have anything along those lines. What did make me happy though is the family is allowed to visit the minor 7 days a week, they just have to make an appointment. If the child chooses not to see their family that day, they don't have to. I think it is wonderful they can see their family. Although, another sad thing is that the family is limited basically to parents and siblings under the age of 9. That saddens me because I know I was so close to my older brother when I was a child, and I would be heart broken if I could not see him. Although it may be sad, the minors are in there for a serious crime. I went into the building thinking that they were there for drug offenses and just run aways, but they are there for murder, violent crimes and armed robbery. So to me it is sad, being who I am and how my life was when I grew up. But it is most likely a little different for them. It may not bother them that they can't have items that comfort them, or able to see their siblings that is a certain age. Rugby_456
This was my first visit to the Juvenile Detention Center, and I really enjoyed the experience. My group asked a lot of good questions that taught me a lot about what goes on in the building, and how they handle certain situations. When we first went into the actual holding place, I was amazed at how much of a difference there was between the jail and the detention center. It was a much warmer environment, with a bunch of posters and colors, which really surprised me at first, but then our instructor explained that these are just kids and they need the warmer environment which made sense. The gym was very nice where they get to exercise for 1 hour each day, and the classrooms were nice as well. It's really a shame to see those kids in there at such a young age or even just a few years younger than us. It made me wonder what caused them to do the crimes they committed. The things that I thought of were maybe their parents were criminals, or they got caught up in the wrong group of friends, but either way it was still an unfortunate sight to see. Another thing that I really liked about the center was that the kids were rewarded for good behavior. Our instructor told us that if you maintained a level 3 for 4 weeks then your family could bring two food items from anywhere. I believe that their rewarding system is very effective because I know as a kid I would love better food, better toothpaste and deodorant, and I loved to see my parents for as long as I could, so I really think that the reward system really keeps the kids in line. Overall, I really learned a lot from the visit and am really glad that I went. Arthur123
It was very interesting and a whole new experience in my life to be part of a tour through the Juvenile Detention Center. I perceived that the Juvenile Detention Center more than a prison or jail it is a rehabilitative institutions for youth. I could see how this center has staff dedicated to provide a caring environment that guides kids to have in the future a better productive life. It was interesting to see all the components this facility offers to the kids to improve their life such as education, medical assistance, and recreation. The facility has small classroom where kids receive their classes what is good because kids receive their educational rights while they are in custody. The institution has a small gym facility where the kids can workout and practice some sports providing a healthy environment to the kids. I learned and I perceived that the American Justice System do not provide this institution to punish kids. The Juvenile Detention Center is intended to provide rehabilitation and care to kids in a secure custody. It is good to see that they are treated with respect and also that the system believe they are capable to change. Thumbs up for all the staff that chose to make a living taking care of these kids. Definitely I would to live this experience one more time. the_soccer_league789
Juvenile Detention Center was not what I expected it to be. I thought there was going to be a lot more residents than 34 all together. I was expecting maybe around 100 or more residents. Also there rooms were much better that I had imagined, I thought they would all be behind bars and fighting with each other constantly. One of the residents, who talked to us about how it is like living there, did not seem to be troubled at all. His English was fully understood and had quite a bit of vocabulary. I found the camera room very interesting because the person who worked in the room was able to view everything, starting from opening doors to checking what the residents were doing. I would think of the person being in charge of the whole building. Also I noticed how the doors were really heavy and they all were locked. What I didn’t was when our tour guide said that “what the residents did is not their fault”, then who’s fault was it? It is their responsibility to know what is good and bad, for example some of the residents have been their for more twice. How they categorized the residents by the shirts was interesting as well, and the coupons they earned when they did good or acted right. I was really surprised how they had schooling, nurses, dentist, cosmetology, etc. I would never think that a place like that would provide those kinds of services. They also gave all kinds of tests related to health wise. Overall I really enjoyed the tour and liked the tour guide we had. I did learn a few things and some terms as well. Ria789
I am extremely glad I went to go tour the Juvenile Detention because it was very informative and interesting to see everything in person. I have personally watched many documentaries on the inner works of Juvenile Detentions and so it was a wonderful experience to actually be inside one. One thing that stood out to me was the great classroom provided for the juvenile’s. It had everything that a normal classroom would have in a public school which is nice that they are experiencing the same environment. They even have the latest technology with the smart boards. While in the classroom he explained to us the disciplinary actions taken by the staff when ever a resident is acting up and breaking the rules. They do everything based on the 5-minute time out in order to take the time to reflect on what they did wrong and how to improve and be better for next time. One thing that was inspiring to hear was that the staff explained how he is able to adapt to certain residents needs and he enjoys to learn more about them and build relationships. Which is something we’ve covered in class about how important it is for the juveniles to feel comfortable opening up to people and forming trusting relationships. I could see this close bonding interaction when we went into the B-Pod and saw the staff talking with some of the residents. I loved how they have a point system based on good behavior and their ability to cooperate with staff because what we learned from some articles we were given to read was that rewarding good behavior is something that most of these juveniles do not receive in their home environment and it is important for their development and self esteem growth. Every year they are assigned a new shirt color if they had reached the right amount of points and pluses. The different colored shirts determined certain privileges they are given. Some of those privileges included more time in the day room, getting commissary, and phone calls. It was nice to see that the residents were able to get full contact visitations because I could imagine how hard it would be for juveniles to not be able to hug or even be close to their parents when they come to visit. Overall, I find that the system they have at the Juvenile Detention Center was well organized and the staff was amazing. I learned a lot about how they try to combat poor behavior and how they shape them into better children. Sunshine123
I am impressed each time I go to the juvenile detention center in Peoria County. What has always impressed me the most when I go on a tour is the disciplinary system that they have in place. When an individual acts outside of the expected behavioral guidelines, the staff kindly asks that they take their five minute timeout. When these juveniles are upwards of 17 and almost 18 years old, it seems far-fetched to believe that a teenager is going to agree to stand face against the wall for 5 minutes. However, they are successful about 85% of the time. In the instance that a juvenile does not agree to take their 5 minute timeout, they are put in their room for 30 minutes with the door closed. Following the 30 minutes of isolation, the juvenile is still required to serve the 5 minutes against the wall. There is no way around the punishment, therefore most of the residents are compliant and show great results while they are in the juvenile detention center. One thing that is surprising to me is that the detention center in Peoria County has more residents than a lot of other centers throughout the state. This is surprising to me because the Peoria County detention center only has about 34 residents at this time. They can hold up to 65 or so, but that is not the reality at this point, which is a good thing; just surprising. I like the rewarding system that they have at the detention center as well. Everyone starts out with a blue shirt, and they can work up to a green shirt, and then an orange shirt if they display good behavior and cooperation while they are there. With each additional upgrade from one shirt to the other comes additional privileges, one of which is commissary, which is a pretty big deal to the residents of the detention center. gh_blackhawks123
Going to the juvenile jail was very interesting. I help me choose what I really or who I wanted to be a probation officer for and that’s kids. Being able to see how the kids are disciplined and how they operate that with the color shirts. I think the colors was green, orange, and I want to say blue. The colors just help the employees on who have been misbehavior and don’t get the “good” stuff. The great thing that I learned about the juvenile jail was that its more of a rehabilitation and not just a jail. I like how they try to get the kids on track and get them going to school to learn why there in the juvenile jail. Its giving them an opportunity to be able to change their attitudes and make the right decisions. Also, not just limiting their visits and being able to see their parents and different things. If their parents are in their life’s it’s always good for them to know someone is on their side while their going through their situation. I also like how they keep them active and not just being lazy while there in there. They would think it’s a joke and probably still act a fool while there in there because it’s nothing making them get any better, so for them to go to school and have free time is a great idea. Me wanting to be a probation officer for young kids is going to be good because the whole reason is to help people get their second chance on the right path. Being able to have a relationship with them so they know that they always have me to talk too and help them make right decisions. My future with kids is really going to be a good experience. -babyblue123
This was my first time at the juvenile detention center and I learned a lot while I was there. I expected it to be a lot like the adult jail, but it was very different. I thought it was interesting how they use the 5 minute timeout and how it actually worked on the kids. I would think that they would not listen to it but they have a lot of incentives in place so if they do what they are told and what is expected of them they get rewarded. I liked the idea that they have them doing school work while in there and that it transfers over to their school when they get out. It was nice to know that they actually try to make these kids better individuels so that they do not reoffend and end up back there and eventually in the adult jail. All together I was very glad that I went there because I learned a lot that I did not know before and have a complete different perspective on how kids in the juvenile system are and what is actually going on there. Trojan123
This was my first time ever visiting the juvenile detention center and it was nothing like I I expected, you see on television all these shows where people are just fighting and the workers there are just yelling at them saying mean things, when really the people who work there care the most. It was so sad to see that people have such a bad home life that they feel safer and would rather be locked up in there than on the streets. It was so nice to hear the lady that gave us the tour talk about how much she and the staff there cared about bettering the life of these individuals as much as they could. I could not even imagine being locked up like that I think I would literally go insane. It was nice to see that they had the classrooms set up just like a normal setting, and same with the gym. One thing that really stood out to me was the gentleman that talked to us, he said he had been coming there since he was eleven years old and had actually had people tell him their story and that he understood why they would rather be there, it honestly broke my heart to hear that because everyone is so quick to take everything for granted when in reality if we get to go home to a family and a house with food in it every night we are beyond blessed. EPIC789
The Juvenile Detention Center was very eye opening. It was definitely not what I expected. I learned a lot about the staffs struggle and the everyday lives of the inmates. It was interesting to find out about the education, healthcare, and activity process. It was sad to see such young people who were repeat offenders in there. One boy talked to our group for a long time, he had been in and out of the Juvenile Detention Center since the age of 11. He is almost 20 now. He was really nice, informative, and well spoken. It made me respect him and his situation a lot more. When we walked into PodA, the pod for older, harsher criminals, some boys immediately got riled up and started acting out. This frustrated me as it clearly showed how immature they were. If I was in a detention center i would be on my best behavior. They were immediately punished with a 5 minute timeout. I liked the control room, it seemed like a cool yet stressful job. Overall i'm glad I went on this trip, it opened my eyes to many situations from the staff, to the inmates. -QuinkThick789
With this being my first time going to a Juvenile detention center, I was impressed. I know the surroundings would be similar to a jail, but I thought everything would be like jail. From being treated like inmates or criminals and whatnot, to not having access to school or parents. According to the tour guide, the residents have access to all that. I was able to go on the tour slightly after everyone else and a woman came to give 19 residents haircuts. Even how they apply disciple to the residents is “old school” but still unique under the circumstances. Having a time accepted behavior is a great way to disciple anyone, because they are responsible for their actions alone. The guide was very clear about giving the residents some form of normalcy, by not calling them inmates because not their all not criminals. Most have some DCFS cases or just being bold their for other reasons, so that was good to see and hear. The control room was really cool. When we meet through, I believe a fight or something happened because all the residents in Pod A were sitting down and waiting, and they were a lot more outspoken than Pod C. With the control room, we were able to see how a shut down is handled and they viewed the cameras to see what happened. Being a black American, it is sad to see mostly black Americans being already into the system so such a young age, but it is great to see a system that wants to treat them as people and not delinquents. OMiE789
This was my second or third visit to the Juvenile Detention Center and I personally always learn something. I thing my group talked quite heavily about was the educational system and how it worked exactly. I am glad to see that even though these kids may make a mistake we are still willing to help them and even reward them in some cases. I really like the "shirt" system that the Juvenile Center has in place it helps these kids work for something they want and achieve that goal. It also helps the kids start to reestablish a "normal" way of living I think. Giving a kid more and more freedom and letting them do what they want helps them prepare for their release and makes the change almost seamlessly. These tours are always a great way to learn. You can only learn so much by a book or by and experienced teacher but you really don't know that this is something you can and or want to do until you get out there see what it is like and live it and get your feet wet in this profession. I believe that to be true about any profession how do you know that you really want to do something without even doing it first or even seeing what it is like? You can't really. That is why the earlier you get out there and actually live it or do that job or that thing you want to do really bad the better it is for you. One because you know what to expect and you can start thinking on how you would attack or take care of those specific issues or situations. This was another great tour and I am very lucky to have been able to attend these and I look forward to more down the road and eventually jumping right into something along these lines as my full time and regular job. NDIrish123.
ReplyDeleteI, honestly, enjoyed this opportunity we had. It gives us all a great insight on what people that work in this specific field deal with and even what people who are sent here deal with. I like how the person we were given answered all of our questions thoroughly and to where we could all understand. One of the first things we discussed was education. I think education is very important and is something that everyone needs. Even though kids are put in this facility, doesn’t mean they are not wanting to further better themselves. I am sure not all of them that are in there, is their fault for being sent there so they try their best to get out of there as fast as they can. Which is why the whole different colored shirts they have is such a great idea. It proves to those kids who are lost that everyone that is there, are wanting to help them and lead them in the right direction. Another topic that was brought up in our group was transgender and which part they would be sent to. The facility respects their wishes and goes by what they want. And this is a very touchy subject so it can be difficult in deciding. Another thing I learned was that they have recently started making it to where they each get their own room. If it comes down to where they don’t have the space and they have to share then that’s understandable. But if they have the room, then it’s nice that they get their own space. All in all, I think these kids deserve chances. Everyone makes mistakes so the things they teach them there is great! Schmidt789
ReplyDeleteWhile I’ve never stepped foot in any jail like institutions I was very excited when this opportunity presented itself. Tonight was eye opening for me, to know that both boys and girls shared the same pod, although not sleeping quarters was an interesting fact. The criminal offenses were minor and it allowed for socialization even in a controlled setting. Restorative justice was a new term for me as well, this is when the offender, victim and their family hash out any wrong doings and basically forgive one another. Oh and the five minute time out for disobeying the rules along with consequences for each action helps the juvenilles learn a sense of responsibilty or minimize tension/agressive behavior. The number of inmates were surprising low, I thought there would be an influx of juvenilles looking on the outside in. If given the opportunity I’d do this tour again and would love to tour the county jail one day. Thanks for the experience, it’s one I will not forget!
ReplyDeletemummyoftwo789
I had been to the Juvenile Correctional Center not for an educational reason. So it was actually a very nice visit and she was very informational. And it was more like rehab which I thought was different considering most prisons and jails are designed to keep you back there and get you back in. But I feel like they do not want to see them in there and that is good that they do the education there and let them have gym and do arts and crafts it helps them to know that they are still human beings and that just because you made a mistake does not mean that you are that mistake. And it helps make it easier for when they transition back in the real world they know how to adapt and can work and function in the whole world which is something they do not really do in the other prisons I have been too. And they also seem to actually care for the kids that are there and do not treat them as if they are animals and they make sure they are taken care of and yes actions have consequences but they do not define you. Buttercup789
ReplyDeleteThis was my first trip to the juvenile detention center and i was very pleased at what i learned and saw throughout the tour. One of the main things that i thought was very good about the detention center is the fact that they are really practicing restorative justice there. As we have talked about in class all semester long, being able to teach these juveniles how to be better citizens for when they are released should be one of the main goals. The detention center is very good at practicing this by giving these juveniles the opportunity to go to school to learn and better their education during their sentences as well as work on their social and people skills through focus groups and other programs. The detention center itself was also very well kept and felt more like a school than a correctional facility. One thing that is very great about this institution is that they offer programs that can hep these kids when they are given their second chance when they are released, which is something we have also discussed in class on many occasions. It was very nice to see the types of restorative justice at work in person that we have discussed in the classroom all throughout the semester. Pack123
ReplyDeleteWe have all seen the films that show how they picture these kinds of institutions. Always dark, dreary, and lonely with the staff members showing no compassion. When it comes to the topic of the criminal justice system, thinking it is a harsh and straight forward world is common. With what I witnessed today, was just the opposite of these typical stereotypes. Although these young kids committed deviant acts that landed them in a detention center, their end goal is typically similar to one another. The compassion the employees expressed in the tour, was inspiring. They just want to make sure these kids do not gain an incredibly pessimistic stigma, so they can move on with their lives and are able to grow up with a normal life. These types of systems and or institutions are meant to help children who have entered into this facility by using deterrence. Being around these primary groups, or people they will be surrounded by for days on end, could also help their healing process. It is truly amazing how the government figured out how to create these institutions to help trouble teens and even kids younger than the teens. Both the jail tour and the juvenile detention center tour, has opened my eyes and become a very education experience. I hope many others will get to experience what we did today, as well.
ReplyDeleteMelRich895
This was my first visit to the juvenile detention center. Overall I liked the environment of the building it felt more like a rehabilitation then a place for punishment which was awesome. The detention center looked a lot bigger on the outside then the inside. I thought they would have had more staff then what they had on hand being the ration was 1/8. I did not realize that the juvenile detention center was for ages 10 to 17 and they don’t go to the county jail till they reach 18. Plus, the whole day was planned from the beginning to the end. What caught me off guard was the education not do anything for you unless you work with the school you were going to beforehand for credits towards a degree. Plus, I loved how they had the kids sitting in a circle share their thoughts and feeling to other to possible make social attachments and bonds with others to rid of the anti-social aspect like Travis Hirschi. This was a eye opener I did not realize that they had to have a bachelors degree to work there, plus that control room looks terrible too much for one person to focus on and in the line of work this is you need to be focus and have attention to detail. Jeeper123
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you about how the place seemed more like a place for rehabilitation than a detention center. I was honestly surprised because I was expecting barred cells, tile or concrete floor, less colorful walls and more harsher punishments, but instead, we saw carpeted floors, positive words on the walls, doors on the cells and not bars and punishments that, though befitted a five-year-old, was more gentle and possibly more effective than just beating them up and restraining them all the time. It gave me a lot of respect for the juvenile justice system of Peoria county. I had heard from our tour guide that there were much bigger juvenile halls in the state that aren't necessarily as nice as this one, or as rehabilitative. In a way, it made me slightly excited to be a part of something like that in the later future. Even though we had heard so many stories about things gone wrong, it didn’t scare me away from my desire to become a police officer even. The bad comes with the good and no matter what profession you are in when it comes to criminal justice, there will always be bad situations. However, Im looking forward more to the chances to help kids like them or even adults in trying to rehabilitate or teach them how to be a functioning part of society again. SomethingProfound123
DeleteGoing to the juvenile detention center was an eye opening experience for me and probably everybody else who went. This was the first time I have ever been in a juvenile detention center and the main point of the center is to rehab the juvenile and make sure that the well being of the juvenile is safe, like what we have been saying for the whole semester. When talking about how they handle kids who don’t follow the rules, they said they first give them a five minute time out and if they don’t take the time out they make them go to their room for thirty minutes with nothing in there and sit quietly, then they have to do a five minute time out. After hearing about the time outs, I figured they probably only work half the time, since a lot of the juveniles are close to being adults, but they said the time outs work about eighty five percent of the time, which is good. Also they said they have about thirty five juveniles in the center and other places around the area only have about twenty. I figured that this number would be higher, but it looks like we are starting to help the child instead of locking them up. All of the staff that was there seemed really friendly and seemed to really care about the children and wants what is best for them. This was really a great experience that I don’t think I will ever forget.
ReplyDeleteIllini123 Illini456
That was an invigorating experience, to be able to see first-hand the juvenile detention center in action. the place seemed more like a place for rehabilitation than a detention center. It was nothing like I was expecting it to be. It was more like a rehabilitation center than a detention center where they were being sent to be punished. Expected regular prison cells with bars on them, tile or concrete floor with signs of damage and struggle, blank and cold walls and more harsher punishments with less chances for education, but instead, they had carpeted floors, positive words and pictures on the walls, doors on the cells with all of them having only one person to a cell and no bars anywhere to be found. What shocked me was that they had abnormal punishments. They were punishments that, though befitted a five-year-old, was more gentle and possibly more effective than just beating them up and restraining them all the time. They sat them in time out and made them think about their actions. I figured it would be something that would be ineffective but actually has seemed to work for some of the kids; which is good. It gave me a lot of respect for the juvenile justice system of Peoria county. In comparison to some of the much larger juvenile halls in the state, they are deemed more appropriate in the way they do things. I can’t wait to get my degree because now I know that even if I don’t become a police officer, I can do just as much good working in a place like that, helping people in just as direct of a way. I’m not really frightened by the stories they tell in regards to the kids acting out of getting violent. That is something that is expected regardless. SomethingProfound123
ReplyDeleteThe juvenile tour was completely different than what I expected. Immediately when I walked in I was shocked that we had to walk through a metal detector but at the jail we did not have to also take off our scarves, hats, and jackets which to me seemed kind of odd walking into a juvenile detention center. The officers that are supervising the students are not allowed to carry any weapons only walkie talkies and also showed nothing but respect for the residents to where they don't even acknowledge the juveniles as inmates they call them residents.The first place we stopped was the education center which was interesting for me to learn about because they keep the children on a busy schedule all day starting with breakfast at 7:15 then classes starting at 8. I thought it was great for the kids that they do continue their education while they are serving time in this center and even when they are released all their work they did while in the care of the juvenile center transfers over when they continue their regular education. Overall the juvenile detention center was very clean and quiet. I liked the fact that the employees do not dress as police officers but casually because they want the juveniles in an environment where they are comfortable enough for rehabilitation. While walking through the pods and observing where the juveniles sleep they all get a room to themselves and they shower by themselves and this was because the Peoria Juvenile detention center has PREA where they really take sexual assault very serious and they want to avoid having that specific problem at all costs. Learning about the 3 different color t shirts the residents could earn for more incentatives so they could keep their good behavior up. swaggyy456
ReplyDeleteThis was my first tour of the Juvenile Detention Center and I really enjoyed it. First thing I learned about was the education part, I didn't know about them having to go to school Monday through Thursday. A thing I found interesting, and it may just because of the jail being different, that the boys and girls interact with each other instead of the jail where they have to be out of sight and sound. I was really glad that one of the boys from BPod came out and talked to us and told us his thoughts of the Juvenile Detention Center and gave us more insight about the facility itself and other kids that are in there with him, like how he said that there was a boy in there that had talked to him about his home life and how he rather be in the system then at his home. It opened my eyes and tugged at my heart to hear that or the story that our tour lady told my group that she had a boy walk from the Harrison Homes all the way to the Juvenile Detention Center, hoping he had a warrant because his foster parents had kicked him out and he hadn't eaten in three days. Another thing that I thought was interesting was that if a resident didn't feel comfortable or didn't want to talk to one of the staff members or the mental health help, that they could use the blue phone and call the abuse hotline and talk to them. Another thing I learned that I didn't know that was if even if the resident was 17 or older and had a juvenile offense they still had to come to the juvenile detention center to serve their time for that offense. Walking through and hearing more about it, I thought that the juvenile detention center was more of like a rehabilitation more then an actual detention center. I was glad that I had the opportunity to take this tour and learn more about it the juvenile detention center because I didn't know anything about it. FoxRacing456
ReplyDeleteThis is my first time visiting a Juvenile Detention Center and I enjoyed the opportunity that I had to visit one. Our tour guide who is one of the supervisors told us that there are 34 young offenders who are in the center, which is low and a good number for them. The pods they had is a look-alike of the jail and males and females are being separated. They had a small medical facility which provides dental, health, and medication to youth. They have a psychologist who comes in to check on the youth twice a week. I like that education is being given to the youth because it is the very most important, helpful and something that everyone needs and was given gym time hours, making arts and crafts that helps them to stay interacted to one another. The way of their booking a young offender is called intake which includes body search, mug shot, examined by medical stuff etc. and if needed and requested they are being tested for sexually transmitted diseases. She mentioned that some young offenders just walk-in to surrender because they have nowhere to go. Also, the center is fully accredited not just regularly but with high standard, they also have a contract with ERS (Emergency Response Service) and OSF and the detention center is open 24 hours. I like the shirt color system that the detention center is implementing and the way of giving them five-minute time out for disobeying rules, minimize tension and aggressive behavior. I like how the staff cares and treats them nicely which everybody needs even though you make mistakes. -M.Scott456
ReplyDeleteMy experience at the juvenile detention center was a lot better than I expected I learned so much about the facility and what goes on inside. Such as the kids are able to get education while in there, they also are able to get really good meals. If kids misbehave they get put in 5-minute time outs if they choose to not take the time out they get a 30 and 5 which is 30 minutes in their room and then they get to serve their 5-minute time out. What I found that was awesome was they are able to have Physical education classes and they have 2 gyms they can mess around in. One thing I found sort of disturbing is that there is a chance that the kids will end up raping others in the bathrooms or any place that there is no cameras to see them such as class rooms or spots in the facility that are blind. All and all I enjoyed the tour seeing what happens in there and getting to see actually kids in the facility made the experience much more interesting and it hit a part of me that is telling me that if I mess up I can end up in the same spot as these kids.
ReplyDeleteCarlBaconWho456
Going to the detention center was informational. One thing I learned was that children did not have to be out of sight/out of hear when it came to boys vs. girls. I enjoyed being able to go through and having things explained like the education, mental health problems with children, the health clinic, gym time, all the way to eating in a family style. I enjoyed learning that when it came to the health clinic that the young adults are offered every testing that there is and the rights to medication. It was interesting when the lady mentioned that sometimes kids only go to the doctors when they go to the detention center because families just don’t them. Another thing I enjoyed was the restorative justice part they did. Although we did not get to chime in, it was still nice knowing that what they did to solve problems or talk problems out with each other. Toward the end I wish I would have asked more questions with the scoring system because I feel that is where I don’t agree with it, especially knowing that they are at such low numbers as the lady stated. The scoring system I question because when kids are involved in crime and police show and no punishment is taken, it’s teaching them that they can get away with what they just did which can lead them to keep doing what they are. Another thing is that kids are going to slowly start to learn what can and cannot do to get themselves scored into the system. One last thing I enjoyed was that when children are on suicide watch, they are checked on every four minutes vs. adults its every 30 minutes.
ReplyDeleteunknownzeeha456/789
Well, this was my first time going to the JDC ever and i was pretty amazed. I would’ve thought it would be much bigger than what it was actually was. I didn’t know that the kids that are in there still get the school opportunity just like the kids that are actually in school. The kids that are in there are just like any other kids that are teenagers who are acting out. But, I can say that the “time outs” are a little childish. I wouldn’t think that the 5 minute time out would make them behave any more if they don’t want to. I can say that the instructors are pretty strict on the kids. They do take into consideration for the kids who have ADHD. It was really neat how the residents can earn point to be able to buy other food that they want. They can also buy some time to play longer. One thing that I found very odd is why the residents can’t sleep all day if they wanted to. That was on of my questions that I had asked. They aren’t allowed to sleep, when the people in charge say to get up they have to get up. If they do choose to sleep all day it goes under disobeying and they would get a timeout. Me personally thinks that is really weird because I would want to sleep all day. Their rooms are really cold and small. Their rooms that they sleep in looks very uncomfortable, their beds is like a block of cement with the mattress. The jail to me just looks like a big high school, they still do everything that the other students do who are in actual school. The girls that are there are really feisty, two of the girls jumped at me just for looking at them, so I could only imagine what they do to the other girls that are in there with them that looks at them. WS123
ReplyDeleteVisiting the juvenile detention center was a great experience and I learned a lot. I feel that it is great that they give the children a chance to get their education, that could help them a lot in the future. I learned that the boys and the girls share pods which I never knew and also if the kids are misbehaving they get a 5 minute time out. I think it's great that they aren't so harsh on the kids and actually preparing them for when they do get out of jail.
ReplyDeleteCrown789
While I toured the juvenile detention center I learned so much information. To start,I was surprised on how strict they were with every individual that entered the building. Us students could not even wear a hat, scarf, jacket or anything more than normal clothes on our body. It confused me at first, considering the jail was not that strict. The next thing that I learned was the schooling that is taken place within the detention center. They basically have normal school days just like us, and a summer break of six weeks. They also get gym time, which I was expecting. Although, what made me a little sad was their living areas. The minor is only allowed a mattress, sheet, two blankets, a pillow and hygiene items inside their bedroom. The reason it made me a little sad is because there are some young children in there. I know when I was a child I was attached to a certain item, to give me comfort. But they can't have anything along those lines. What did make me happy though is the family is allowed to visit the minor 7 days a week, they just have to make an appointment. If the child chooses not to see their family that day, they don't have to. I think it is wonderful they can see their family. Although, another sad thing is that the family is limited basically to parents and siblings under the age of 9. That saddens me because I know I was so close to my older brother when I was a child, and I would be heart broken if I could not see him. Although it may be sad, the minors are in there for a serious crime. I went into the building thinking that they were there for drug offenses and just run aways, but they are there for murder, violent crimes and armed robbery. So to me it is sad, being who I am and how my life was when I grew up. But it is most likely a little different for them. It may not bother them that they can't have items that comfort them, or able to see their siblings that is a certain age. Rugby_456
ReplyDeleteThis was my first visit to the Juvenile Detention Center, and I really enjoyed the experience. My group asked a lot of good questions that taught me a lot about what goes on in the building, and how they handle certain situations. When we first went into the actual holding place, I was amazed at how much of a difference there was between the jail and the detention center. It was a much warmer environment, with a bunch of posters and colors, which really surprised me at first, but then our instructor explained that these are just kids and they need the warmer environment which made sense. The gym was very nice where they get to exercise for 1 hour each day, and the classrooms were nice as well. It's really a shame to see those kids in there at such a young age or even just a few years younger than us. It made me wonder what caused them to do the crimes they committed. The things that I thought of were maybe their parents were criminals, or they got caught up in the wrong group of friends, but either way it was still an unfortunate sight to see. Another thing that I really liked about the center was that the kids were rewarded for good behavior. Our instructor told us that if you maintained a level 3 for 4 weeks then your family could bring two food items from anywhere. I believe that their rewarding system is very effective because I know as a kid I would love better food, better toothpaste and deodorant, and I loved to see my parents for as long as I could, so I really think that the reward system really keeps the kids in line. Overall, I really learned a lot from the visit and am really glad that I went. Arthur123
ReplyDeleteIt was very interesting and a whole new experience in my life to be part of a tour through the Juvenile Detention Center. I perceived that the Juvenile Detention Center more than a prison or jail it is a rehabilitative institutions for youth. I could see how this center has staff dedicated to provide a caring environment that guides kids to have in the future a better productive life. It was interesting to see all the components this facility offers to the kids to improve their life such as education, medical assistance, and recreation. The facility has small classroom where kids receive their classes what is good because kids receive their educational rights while they are in custody. The institution has a small gym facility where the kids can workout and practice some sports providing a healthy environment to the kids. I learned and I perceived that the American Justice System do not provide this institution to punish kids. The Juvenile Detention Center is intended to provide rehabilitation and care to kids in a secure custody. It is good to see that they are treated with respect and also that the system believe they are capable to change. Thumbs up for all the staff that chose to make a living taking care of these kids. Definitely I would to live this experience one more time.
ReplyDeletethe_soccer_league789
Juvenile Detention Center was not what I expected it to be. I thought there was going to be a lot more residents than 34 all together. I was expecting maybe around 100 or more residents. Also there rooms were much better that I had imagined, I thought they would all be behind bars and fighting with each other constantly. One of the residents, who talked to us about how it is like living there, did not seem to be troubled at all. His English was fully understood and had quite a bit of vocabulary. I found the camera room very interesting because the person who worked in the room was able to view everything, starting from opening doors to checking what the residents were doing. I would think of the person being in charge of the whole building. Also I noticed how the doors were really heavy and they all were locked. What I didn’t was when our tour guide said that “what the residents did is not their fault”, then who’s fault was it? It is their responsibility to know what is good and bad, for example some of the residents have been their for more twice. How they categorized the residents by the shirts was interesting as well, and the coupons they earned when they did good or acted right. I was really surprised how they had schooling, nurses, dentist, cosmetology, etc. I would never think that a place like that would provide those kinds of services. They also gave all kinds of tests related to health wise. Overall I really enjoyed the tour and liked the tour guide we had. I did learn a few things and some terms as well.
ReplyDeleteRia789
I am extremely glad I went to go tour the Juvenile Detention because it was very informative and interesting to see everything in person. I have personally watched many documentaries on the inner works of Juvenile Detentions and so it was a wonderful experience to actually be inside one. One thing that stood out to me was the great classroom provided for the juvenile’s. It had everything that a normal classroom would have in a public school which is nice that they are experiencing the same environment. They even have the latest technology with the smart boards. While in the classroom he explained to us the disciplinary actions taken by the staff when ever a resident is acting up and breaking the rules. They do everything based on the 5-minute time out in order to take the time to reflect on what they did wrong and how to improve and be better for next time. One thing that was inspiring to hear was that the staff explained how he is able to adapt to certain residents needs and he enjoys to learn more about them and build relationships. Which is something we’ve covered in class about how important it is for the juveniles to feel comfortable opening up to people and forming trusting relationships. I could see this close bonding interaction when we went into the B-Pod and saw the staff talking with some of the residents. I loved how they have a point system based on good behavior and their ability to cooperate with staff because what we learned from some articles we were given to read was that rewarding good behavior is something that most of these juveniles do not receive in their home environment and it is important for their development and self esteem growth. Every year they are assigned a new shirt color if they had reached the right amount of points and pluses. The different colored shirts determined certain privileges they are given. Some of those privileges included more time in the day room, getting commissary, and phone calls. It was nice to see that the residents were able to get full contact visitations because I could imagine how hard it would be for juveniles to not be able to hug or even be close to their parents when they come to visit. Overall, I find that the system they have at the Juvenile Detention Center was well organized and the staff was amazing. I learned a lot about how they try to combat poor behavior and how they shape them into better children. Sunshine123
ReplyDeleteI am impressed each time I go to the juvenile detention center in Peoria County. What has always impressed me the most when I go on a tour is the disciplinary system that they have in place. When an individual acts outside of the expected behavioral guidelines, the staff kindly asks that they take their five minute timeout. When these juveniles are upwards of 17 and almost 18 years old, it seems far-fetched to believe that a teenager is going to agree to stand face against the wall for 5 minutes. However, they are successful about 85% of the time. In the instance that a juvenile does not agree to take their 5 minute timeout, they are put in their room for 30 minutes with the door closed. Following the 30 minutes of isolation, the juvenile is still required to serve the 5 minutes against the wall. There is no way around the punishment, therefore most of the residents are compliant and show great results while they are in the juvenile detention center. One thing that is surprising to me is that the detention center in Peoria County has more residents than a lot of other centers throughout the state. This is surprising to me because the Peoria County detention center only has about 34 residents at this time. They can hold up to 65 or so, but that is not the reality at this point, which is a good thing; just surprising. I like the rewarding system that they have at the detention center as well. Everyone starts out with a blue shirt, and they can work up to a green shirt, and then an orange shirt if they display good behavior and cooperation while they are there. With each additional upgrade from one shirt to the other comes additional privileges, one of which is commissary, which is a pretty big deal to the residents of the detention center.
ReplyDeletegh_blackhawks123
Going to the juvenile jail was very interesting. I help me choose what I really or who I wanted to be a probation officer for and that’s kids. Being able to see how the kids are disciplined and how they operate that with the color shirts. I think the colors was green, orange, and I want to say blue. The colors just help the employees on who have been misbehavior and don’t get the “good” stuff. The great thing that I learned about the juvenile jail was that its more of a rehabilitation and not just a jail. I like how they try to get the kids on track and get them going to school to learn why there in the juvenile jail. Its giving them an opportunity to be able to change their attitudes and make the right decisions. Also, not just limiting their visits and being able to see their parents and different things. If their parents are in their life’s it’s always good for them to know someone is on their side while their going through their situation. I also like how they keep them active and not just being lazy while there in there. They would think it’s a joke and probably still act a fool while there in there because it’s nothing making them get any better, so for them to go to school and have free time is a great idea. Me wanting to be a probation officer for young kids is going to be good because the whole reason is to help people get their second chance on the right path. Being able to have a relationship with them so they know that they always have me to talk too and help them make right decisions. My future with kids is really going to be a good experience. -babyblue123
ReplyDeleteThis was my first time at the juvenile detention center and I learned a lot while I was there. I expected it to be a lot like the adult jail, but it was very different. I thought it was interesting how they use the 5 minute timeout and how it actually worked on the kids. I would think that they would not listen to it but they have a lot of incentives in place so if they do what they are told and what is expected of them they get rewarded. I liked the idea that they have them doing school work while in there and that it transfers over to their school when they get out. It was nice to know that they actually try to make these kids better individuels so that they do not reoffend and end up back there and eventually in the adult jail. All together I was very glad that I went there because I learned a lot that I did not know before and have a complete different perspective on how kids in the juvenile system are and what is actually going on there. Trojan123
ReplyDeleteThis was my first time ever visiting the juvenile detention center and it was nothing like I I expected, you see on television all these shows where people are just fighting and the workers there are just yelling at them saying mean things, when really the people who work there care the most. It was so sad to see that people have such a bad home life that they feel safer and would rather be locked up in there than on the streets. It was so nice to hear the lady that gave us the tour talk about how much she and the staff there cared about bettering the life of these individuals as much as they could. I could not even imagine being locked up like that I think I would literally go insane. It was nice to see that they had the classrooms set up just like a normal setting, and same with the gym. One thing that really stood out to me was the gentleman that talked to us, he said he had been coming there since he was eleven years old and had actually had people tell him their story and that he understood why they would rather be there, it honestly broke my heart to hear that because everyone is so quick to take everything for granted when in reality if we get to go home to a family and a house with food in it every night we are beyond blessed. EPIC789
ReplyDeleteThe Juvenile Detention Center was very eye opening. It was definitely not what I expected. I learned a lot about the staffs struggle and the everyday lives of the inmates. It was interesting to find out about the education, healthcare, and activity process. It was sad to see such young people who were repeat offenders in there. One boy talked to our group for a long time, he had been in and out of the Juvenile Detention Center since the age of 11. He is almost 20 now. He was really nice, informative, and well spoken. It made me respect him and his situation a lot more. When we walked into PodA, the pod for older, harsher criminals, some boys immediately got riled up and started acting out. This frustrated me as it clearly showed how immature they were. If I was in a detention center i would be on my best behavior. They were immediately punished with a 5 minute timeout. I liked the control room, it seemed like a cool yet stressful job. Overall i'm glad I went on this trip, it opened my eyes to many situations from the staff, to the inmates. -QuinkThick789
ReplyDeleteWith this being my first time going to a Juvenile detention center, I was impressed. I know the surroundings would be similar to a jail, but I thought everything would be like jail. From being treated like inmates or criminals and whatnot, to not having access to school or parents. According to the tour guide, the residents have access to all that. I was able to go on the tour slightly after everyone else and a woman came to give 19 residents haircuts. Even how they apply disciple to the residents is “old school” but still unique under the circumstances. Having a time accepted behavior is a great way to disciple anyone, because they are responsible for their actions alone. The guide was very clear about giving the residents some form of normalcy, by not calling them inmates because not their all not criminals. Most have some DCFS cases or just being bold their for other reasons, so that was good to see and hear. The control room was really cool. When we meet through, I believe a fight or something happened because all the residents in Pod A were sitting down and waiting, and they were a lot more outspoken than Pod C. With the control room, we were able to see how a shut down is handled and they viewed the cameras to see what happened. Being a black American, it is sad to see mostly black Americans being already into the system so such a young age, but it is great to see a system that wants to treat them as people and not delinquents.
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