Colton's academy for at-risk teens graduates 17
Michael J. Sorba, Staff Writer
Posted: 11/25/2008 08:20:55 PM PST
COLTON - Whether they were ditchers, taggers or brawlers, they were all heading down the wrong path.
And it was their prior mistakes that brought them together for the Police Department's Colton At Risk Teens academy, a program that aims to get troubled teens back on the right path.
"The importance of programs such as this is focusing on youths who need positive redirection in their lives," said Police Chief Bob Miller. "In the end, my belief is, it helps reduce crime. That is our goal along with establishing meaningful relationships with our community."
A class of 17 teens graduated from the academy Thursday during a well-attended ceremony at the Palms Center.
The teens were honored with a plaque and congratulatory letters from State Sen. Gloria Negrete McLeod, D-Montclair, and the City Council.
The academy is open to teens from anywhere in the region, ages 13 to 17. Some are mandated to attend by courts, some are referred to the program by social services, probation or school districts. Others are enrolled by their parents, said Officer Rich Randolph, an academy administrator.
Teens attend classes from 8a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday and are educated on a wide range of topics such as sexually transmitted diseases, the criminal justice system, career development and avoiding bullying, Randolph said.
"These are kids with little or no structure," said Randolph. "When they enroll in our program, they have to learn a lot of structure. ... It's designed to instill character development and a sense of self respect."
The department is accepting applications for the next academy, beginning Jan. 22. About 50 teens are expected to attend.
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