DJJ Holds Family Day at Rockdale RYDC

Recently, DJJ hosted a Family Day at Rockdale Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC). Youth, family members and staff members enjoyed a fun-filled day with games and activities, musical and dance performances and motivational speakers. The goal of Family Day was to increase parental engagement and allow youths and parents the opportunity to get to know agency leaders and staff.

Assistant Commissioner Sean Hamilton welcomed guests to the event and encouraged families to be actively involved in their children’s lives while they are in DJJ’s care. Commissioner Avery D. Niles told parents and family members, “Your engagement is crucial to helping your loved ones reenter society and become productive citizens. Encourage your children to stay committed to their futures. We cannot do this without you.”

Associate Superintendent Jean Lee discussed DJJ’s school system and GPA, Georgia’s 181st school district. “GPA is an accredited school where your child has the opportunity to earn his or her high school diploma, GED or Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC). We also have youth in our school system who have already completed four semesters of college online,” she said. “I urge you, as parents, to take an active role in your child’s education by talking with their teachers and checking their grades online.” Lee also introduced Rockdale RYDC’s teachers, including DJJ’s 2017 Teacher of the Year, Harold Farmer.

The youth challenged their parents to a friendly trivia match. The youth, led by Commissioner Niles, claimed victory. Youths and their families also participated in a game of musical chairs and danced to hits like the “Cha Cha Slide” and the “Cupid Shuffle.” Attendees were treated to a lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers. Youths and their families also had the opportunity for photographs in front of a colorful backdrop designed by one of the Rockdale RYDC students.

The Rockdale RYDC Youth Choir and Liturgical Dancers, directed by Volunteer and PBIS Coordinator Staci Hill-Wilson, provided uplifting performances for their peers, families and staff members. One youth recited a poem he had written on perseverance. “I have a sincere passion for our youth. We have solid programs at Rockdale and I tremendously enjoyed working with the youths. They were able to explore new avenues and their gifts and talents were enjoyed by all during Family Day,” said Hill-Wilson. “I must also credit our facility director, Wayne Dashield, for fully supporting the youth and staff at Rockdale.”

Pastor Aakem Woodard and author and life skills coach Art Powell served as the event’s keynote speakers. Woodard and Powell, who have both overcome past mistakes, spoke to the youth on decision-making and goal-setting. “You can only move forward when you take responsibility for your actions,” said Woodard. “Remember to love and appreciate your parents who love and support you even in the toughest of times.” Powell stressed to the youths that they need to love themselves and set goals to become successful. “Surround yourself with positive people. If you believe in yourself, everything will work out,” he said.

Facility Director Wayne Dashield recognized the youths who were selected for Rockdale RYDC’s first honor dorm. They were selected for their good behavior and dedication to school work. They were presented with certificates and will now receive extended privileges. Dashield encouraged them to keep up the good work and assured parents that DJJ remains committed to helping their children succeed.

Commissioner Niles thanked parents and family members for attending and the staff members and volunteers for their dedication. In closing, he told the youths, “We care about you and we will never give up on you. Therefore, do not give up on yourselves.”