Training School Director Out: Kevin McKenna Has 'Stepped Down'

CRANSTON, RI—After last week's violent incident at the Training School, state officials have called for changes. Department of Children, Youth and Families Director Dr. Trista Piccola today announced an action plan to ensure the safety and security of staff and residents at the Rhode Island Training School. Here is the press release.

“DCYF is taking immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of staff and residents at the Training School,” said Director Piccola. “Our Juvenile Program Workers have a tough job and we need to ensure that they have the resources needed to do their work, and that our facilities and programming are up to the task of helping rehabilitate the youth in our care.”

DCYF is implementing the following actions at the Training School, effective immediately:

• Training School Executive Director Kevin McKenna has stepped down from his position. He is being replaced on a temporary basis by former Training School Acting Superintendent Kevin Aucoin.
• To enhance safety and security, the youth housed at the RBC are being moved to the Training School’s primary detention facility.
• A Captain from the Rhode Island State Police has been put on a 90-day assignment to provide temporary safety and security support. The Department of Corrections will also dispatch a corrections expert for 60 to 90 days to provide additional consultation.
• The Department of Corrections has agreed to dispatch assistance to the Training School as needed. There is plan for communication and execution in place between the Training School and the Department of Corrections.

At Governor Raimondo’s direction, DCYF will conduct a comprehensive, 60-day review of the Training School to provide recommendations for strengthening operations at the facility and improving outcomes for its juvenile residents. The position of Training School Executive Director will remain vacant until the completion of the 60-Day Review.