Juvenile program sees record reading and academic success

During a recent government meeting, Maurice Bearekapas provided an update on the current status of residents at the campus, reporting a total of 30 individuals, comprised of 13 boys and 6 girls in the open unit, and 8 boys and 3 girls in detention. Notably, 6 of these residents are from out of county, representing areas such as Lenawee, Hillsdale Branch, St. Joe, and Calhoun.

Bearekapas highlighted that the facility has serviced a total of 224 juveniles this year, with 151 males and 73 females. He noted a significant increase in the average length of stay in detention, which has risen to 20.53 days from just 2.1 days in 1992. This change reflects the expanded range of services now available to juveniles, which have contributed to longer stays as more comprehensive support is provided.

The meeting also touched on the success of the summer school program, aimed at helping students catch up academically. Bearekapas reported that residents in the open unit read an impressive 500 books during the last school year, an increase of 200 from the previous year, indicating a positive trend in literacy and engagement.

Additionally, the board has awarded scholarships to residents, including one young woman who plans to attend Michigan State University. The overall academic performance of the students was highlighted, with an average GPA reported at nearly 3.1, which Bearekapas described as pleasantly surprising.

The meeting concluded without further questions or updates, and a motion to adjourn was supported unanimously.