RivCo Education, Probation Departments Enter into Decade-Long Agreement

By City News Service:

An agreement confirming the Riverside County Office of Education as the primary teaching source -- over the next 10 years -- for youths housed at county detention facilities was approved this week by the Board of Supervisors.

The compact between the Office of Education and the Department of Probation did not identify any significant changes compared to previous years. Under state law, counties’ superintendents of education are responsible for arranging instructional services in juvenile detention facilities.

In Riverside County, staff from the Office of Education provide classroom instruction at juvenile halls in Indio, Murrieta and Riverside.

According to the board-authorized agreement, youths under correctional supervision are required to receive 240 minutes of instruction daily.

“Sadly, many delinquent youth only avail themselves of educational services when in a detention setting,” according to a preface to the memorandum of understanding. “The delivery of an effective educational program is, therefore, crucial to ensuring these youth develop the basic academic and social skills necessary to acquire and maintain gainful employment. In response to this challenge, (the county) continues to provide educational services that incorporate the state-mandated academic curriculum with evidence-based practices and social awareness programming.”

According to county officials, teaching strategies include developing “individual learning plans” that consider each student’s strengths and limitations, with alternative education programs established for youths with learning disabilities or emotional issues.

The county’s course study guide underscored the need for instruction in English language arts, math, science, the social sciences and physical education.

The goal is to prepare students for the California High School Exit Exam, or the General Education Development -- GED -- test.

(Image via Shutterstock)