Some youth are encouraged to pursue a GED and arrangements have been made with the Southeast Community College to provide on-site testing. The mission of the educational program is to address the diverse academic, cultural, social, emotional, and developmental needs of youth. Youth have individually prescribed instructional program of study developed that will enhance basic skills in the areas of English, math, social studies, career education, life skills, and survival skills. The education programs at the Juvenile Detention Center operate year round. These programs share the common objectives of making positive use of resident's sentenced or detained time, encouraging personal and educational growth and motivating appropriate behavior.
School includes classroom time, tutoring, and individualized programs of study.
The Juvenile Detention Center serves approximately 1,000 youth each year. While the average age is 15.5, many residents function academically at a much lower level. All programs are designed to accommodate the academic and emotional needs of each youth person. The school program serves youth who have been placed in secure detention by the court, probation, parole or police until such time as they may appear in court, be released or receive sentencing. The length of stay for detainee residents may vary from 1 day to several months.