Each facility has a principal and teachers who are veterans of public schools. Although the average age of a youth arriving at TYC is 16, the average offender reads and does math on the 5th or 6th grade level - four to five years behind their peers. Work in the classroom is integrated with the TYC rehabilitation program to reinforce concepts that help offenders change their anti-social thinking. TYC works to help every youth who is old enough to earn a GED or high school diploma. The agency also offers a variety of career and technology programs that qualify youth for gainful employment when they return home.
Youth have access to medical and routine dental services as required by law.
A system of checks and balances is in place to investigate mistreatment, abuse, or unlawful behavior. The investigative findings are reviewed regularly by the TYC Board of Directors. Parole Must Be Earned Youth who demonstrate progress and a sense of personal responsibility for their actions earn parole status. Back in their communities, they must abide by many rules including full-time productive activity that includes school or work and community service. Those who don't follow the rules can have their parole revoked and be sent back to a secure facility.