JJC Holds High School Graduation Ceremony

Monroe Township - The Juvenile Justice Commission's high school commencement ceremony will be held on Wednesday, June 18 at 10:00 a.m. at the New Jersey Training School (NJTS) in Monroe Township. Press is encouraged to arrive early to be processed through security.

Representatives from the Governor's Office and the Attorney General's Office will be present to help distribute the degrees.

The graduates have met the requirements of the State of New Jersey Department of Education. The Juvenile Justice Commission coordinates each student's curricula with his or her home school to allow the student to receive a diploma from his or her local education authority. Students receiving their diplomas come from NJTS, the Stabilization and Reintegration Program, and the JJC's 16 residential community homes located throughout the State.

"Education is the foundation of the Juvenile Justice Commission - it is our highest priority," said Howard L. Beyer, Executive Director of the Juvenile Justice Commission. "We know that a high school diploma will open more doors for these youth than almost anything else that we can give them. By realizing each youth's individual potential, we can change his or her future."

Juveniles are placed with the Juvenile Justice Commission by the courts. Students are evaluated upon entry to the JJC and are placed in academic classes according to their ability in each area. The JJC also coordinates with sending school districts to ensure that students are keeping up with the curriculum being taught in their sending district. This makes the transition back to school easier and ensures that students return to their home schools at the same place as their classmates.

In addition to the core curriculum, JJC students are instructed in gang awareness, respect and dignity, and various vocational programs.

The JJC employs more than 400 teachers, school psychologists, nutritionists, vocational teachers and support staff who provide state-of-the-art instruction to students in JJC programs, juvenile county detention centers, and community-based programs throughout the State.

The New Jersey Training School is a secure facility. Attendees must RSVP to Sharon Lauchaire, Public Information Officer at 609-530-6674 to confirm their attendance and to be placed on the visitor list.

New Jersey State law protects juveniles' confidentiality. Consent will be obtained to allow certain juveniles to speak with members of the press and be photographed. Photographs of all other juveniles are strictly prohibited. Reporters are asked to meet at the front door of the Wilson School immediately following the ceremony to interview the appropriate graduates.

For more information on the JJC, please visit www.njjjc.com