Page 25 - Department Overview 2020

JUVENILE INSTITUTIONS

Upon entry into the program, all youth are assigned to a squad which is then
overseen by a Juvenile Institution Officer (JIO). The squads work together as a

team to encourage individual and team efforts to meet clearly defined behavioral
expectations while working towards programmatic goals. All youth participate in
programs designed to help them recognize and productively respond to triggers

and criminal thinking that have previously resulted in impulsive behavior,
participation in criminal conduct and/or gang activity. The youth learn skills for
successful participation and reintegration at home, at school, and in the
community.

When a youth is referred to the Camp program, Camp personnel in conjunction
with Juvenile Services screen the youth and make a recommendation to the
Juvenile Court for an appropriate period of intervention. The standard residential

programs are seventeen (17) weeks or twenty-six (26) weeks in length, depending
on the needs of the youth. Youth who display continuing positive behavior can
earn incentives, including home furloughs and “bonus weeks,” which shorten
their stay in Camp. Each youth works to progress through the program based on a

graduation plan formulated from input provided by the family, the Behavioral
Wellness clinician, teachers, and Probation staff, as well as the information
gathered from the Positive Achievement Change Tool (PACT) risk and needs
assessment. Probation and SBCEO staff conduct weekly behavioral evaluations to

address expectations and celebrate successes. Youth are challenged and guided
in the development of leadership skills, self-confidence, personal accountability,
and community and family responsibility. Program requirements include a
cultural awareness project and a career exploration project. LPBC Camp

Administration regularly schedule motivational and inspirational guest speakers
for the youth to foster pro-social behavior, and positive perspectives of
community and civic responsibility.

Additionally, youth who demonstrate progress in the program are rewarded with
field trips in the community. These field trips include, but are not limited to,
museums, sporting events, cultural centers, and community sponsored events.
JIOs are responsible for ensuring program compliance through monitoring

appropriate conduct, maintaining structure and discipline, teaching physical
training, supervising work crews; and providing daily guidance, support, and
mentoring.

Santa Barbara County Probation Department Overview 2020 23