All state-run juvenile rehabilitation facilities will be using a behavior management system that will outline the consequences for breaking rules.
The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) began implementing this system at its secure facilities earlier this year and will now expand to community facilities.
The rule violation process uses a three-tiered system. The system defines violations as low-level, general, or serious. It also outlines staff interventions that match the level of the violation. The system aims to build trust, consistency, predictability and transparency, and improve safety by making sure that each broken rule receives an appropriate response.
The facilities will start implementation by addressing serious violations first. Serious violations include fighting and other behaviors that present a serious safety or security risk.
“Our hope is that by starting implementation with the most serious violations that require hearings, we can immediately increase safety at all our facilities,” said Assistant Secretary Jennifer Redman. “By giving clear guidance to both staff and young people on what is expected and what happens when rules are not followed, we can address behavior with rehabilitation in mind.”
As part of the implementation update, both staff and young people will have access to a Rule Violation and Response Guide that not only outlines the hearing process, but also defines the rules, approach, and examples.
“The Behavior Management System is one of those foundational processes that will set young people, staff, and programs up for success,” said Redman. “This system will ensure that we provide rehabilitation and appropriate response to behaviors or young people breaking rules across all facilities.”
To learn more, visit the Behavior Management System website.
