| | 1/26/2021 | | (IRMA, Wis.) — The court-appointed Monitor's latest report on conditions at Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School (LHS/CLS) again finds the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) in partial or substantial compliance with every aspect of the consent decree stemming from a 2017 lawsuit over conditions at the schools. The report commended DOC on a number of current and planned improvements at the juvenile facility, including: - Hiring a Program Director to develop more structured, gender and culturally relevant programming
- Creating and implementing a daily schedule of staff-led activities
- Continued steps toward implementing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidenced-based treatment that promotes self-regulation and pro-social interpersonal skills
- All youth now living in cottages that have been remodeled with suicide-prevention design
“The data clearly shows that many trend lines are moving in the right direction and providing a safer environment for staff and youth, particularly within outcome measures reflecting fewer assaults and injury rates of staff," the Monitor noted in the report. The report also applauded the DOC's efforts to maintain facility operations during a global health crisis, rather than taking the easy approach of putting youth in their rooms as much as possible to promote social distancing and reduce the risk of infection. However, this latest report noted that the ongoing pandemic is taking a toll on students and staff at the school. The school building has been closed and youth have been e-learning in their housing units since March. The Monitor notes youth are bored, and that both youth and staff are frustrated with virtual studies, leading to increased behavioral and disciplinary issues. The Monitor cited an increase in use of physical and mechanical restraints over the reporting period. However, she noted, “This is very typical of a facility transitioning from and eliminating the use of OC (pepper spray) as staff develop new skills for de-escalation and behavior response techniques," adding that she feels this trend is reflective of the lack of meaningful education and other programs as a result of the operational changes occurring as a result of the pandemic.
“Progress is not linear. Not every report will be better than the last," said Wisconsin Department of Corrections Secretary Kevin Carr. “This administration has made tremendous progress at Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School the past two years. This report suggests we may have regressed in some areas and we will work to address that." One area where the current administration has made significant strides is eliminating use of OC (pepper spray), which has not been used at the schools in well over a year. DOC has also significantly reduced administrative confinement times for youth, invested millions in facility upgrades that improve youth safety, and enhanced arts programming with the addition of a music therapy program in 2020.
| | Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School | | | 10/16/2020 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Beginning October 24, Medicaid members who are incarcerated will have their health care benefits suspended and then re-evaluated before they are released from jail or prison. Previously, Medicaid members had their coverage terminated upon incarceration, which often delayed their access to medical and behavioral health care following their release. The Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Department of Corrections (DOC) have been working with income maintenance agencies and community partners to make this policy change. Delays in care can result in increased negative health outcomes and rates of re-arrest. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, incarcerated individuals are more likely to have chronic physical and mental health conditions, serious mental illnesses, or substance use disorders. One study in another state found that, in the two weeks after their release, adults leaving jail or prison face a mortality rate that is 12.7 times higher than the rest of the adult population. “This new policy will increase the likelihood of successful re-entry for Wisconsin residents into their communities," said DHS Secretary-designee Andrea Palm. “Connecting incarcerated individuals to health care and other support services upon their release is critical to breaking the cycles of chronic homelessness, reliance on emergency care, and re-arrest." As of October 9, there were 20,983 incarcerated individuals supervised by DOC's Division of Adult Institutions. In the 2019 Federal Fiscal Year, 9,585 people in Wisconsin were released from jail or prison, and nearly 70% of these individuals were eligible for a Medicaid program. “It is our job to assist persons in our care in making the best possible transition back into society," said DOC Secretary Kevin A. Carr. “By having a suspension rather than termination policy in place, we are providing them a better chance to successfully rebuild their lives when they return to their communities." “We recognized the need to hear different perspectives and we talked to many individuals and groups to get advice on how to get this right," said Wisconsin Medicaid Director Jim Jones. “Having the right players at the table to inform our implementation of this policy helped us implement efficiencies, use best practices, and ensure that the voices of those affected most by this policy were heard."
With the cost of health care services covered by Medicaid immediately upon an individual's release, community organizations and free or low-cost clinics will no longer be responsible for the medical expenses incurred by Medicaid-eligible individuals who require care after release. Because Medicaid will pay for inpatient hospital expenses for inmates with suspended benefits, this policy should result in cost savings for the DOC and county jails. Learn more about Medicaid in Wisconsin.
| | | | | 9/8/2020 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections' (DOC) Oregon Farm has been honored by the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
The farm, part of the DOC's Bureau of Correctional Enterprises (BCE), received a 2019 Achievement Award from DATCP for producing high-quality milk and maintaining noteworthy farm conditions for more than three years. “The employees and workers on our Oregon Farm team can take pride in this recognition that they continue the tradition of high performance in BCE Agriculture operations," said BCE Director Wes Ray. “They do this work every day, in any weather, and they do it very well." The Oregon Farm consists of approximately 530 acres of mostly alfalfa, corn, soybeans and wheat. Those crops are primarily for feeding the Holstein dairy herd. Six Oregon Farm staff members train and supervise 21 workers in custody at Oakhill Correctional Institution. “The growth of the workers at the farm is amazing. The job skills they gain are great, but the real positive aspect is seeing their confidence rise," said BCE Farm Supervisor Eric Trumm. “I feel the farms give the workers great opportunities to learn and grow." One of those workers, Donnie, explained why he has been working at the farm for five months. “(I) Like to learn new life skills and feel like I'm part of the team." He said, “I love taking care of the animals. I'm always looking for cows with poor milk quality or that aren't eating as much as they normally do." In addition to running three farms and a dairy, BCE operates two warehouses and makes products in 12 industries. Statewide, BCE employed a daily average of 440 people in DOC care last year, paying them a modest wage and teaching them work skills. “Save money to start over after my release," is the reason Thurman gave for working at the Oregon Farm, adding that he also enjoys the work. “I really like taking care of the calves. I also like hoof trim days because they are interesting and challenging." The congratulatory letter from DATCP concluded with, “Thank you again for consistently producing the high quality milk that makes Wisconsin's dairy industry a leader in the nation and the world."
| | | | | 9/14/2020 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) is using technology to keep those in its care connected to loved ones during a pandemic hat has limited physical interaction. The DOC moved to quickly suspend in-person visitation at the onset of the pandemic in Wisconsin, but the agency has since worked to install the necessary technology and provide enough computers to facilitate video visits at all of its institutions. “The feedback from PIOC who have had video visitation has been positive, with many comments of how nice it was to see a family member or friend's face," said Green Bay Correctional Institution Warden, Dylon Radtke. “In several circumstances, a video visit was able to connect a person in our care with someone in their life who was ill, providing the opportunity to be with them during a time of need." Over the first 23 days of August, people in the care of the DOC completed more than 7,000 video visits across more than 20 of the agency's institutions. Those at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution completed nearly 600 calls over that time, those at Oshkosh Correctional more than 700 and those at Stanley Correctional more than 800. Racine Correctional Institution logged more than 1,600 video visits over the entire month of August. “While phone calls, letters, and emails are good forms of communication, they simply do not replace the connection of being able to see another person's face, see them smile and laugh, their expressions and gestures. Video visitation provides the option of connecting in a way more beneficial," Radtke said. The technology has opened up new opportunities for those in DOC care who have loved ones who cannot visit in person because they live out of state, lack transportation or various other reasons. That's why Radtke is among the wardens who say they would advocate for keeping video visitation as an option post pandemic. The DOC's Division of Juvenile Corrections Administrator, Ron Hermes, feels the same and has already stated video visits will remain an option for youth at Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School in Irma, even after in-person visits resume. “Zoom calls are definitely a positive that has come out of this terrible pandemic. Youth in our care are engaging with their families at a level that has surpassed what we thought was possible," Hermes said earlier this summer. Youth interviewed by the court-mandated Monitor for the schools noted that they miss in-person visits, but that they have enjoyed video visits with their families. It has allowed them to not just see their loved ones, but to see their homes again, and maybe a favorite room or pet. Youth at the schools have had a combined 1192 video visits since March 26, and 41% of youth who completed a survey regarding their video visits indicated they had not previously received an in-person visit.
| | | | | 1/15/2021 | | (MILWAUKEE, Wis.) — Fourteen people took steps toward a brighter future today, earning an Associate Degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC). The group faced greater obstacles than most to earn their degrees, completing course work while incarcerated.
The 14 honored at a graduation ceremony today all worked towards their diplomas while in the Wisconsin correctional institutions. They are among the first cohort of individuals in the care of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) to participate in the federal Second Chance Pell pilot program, which allows a small number of colleges and universities nationwide to provide post-secondary education and training to prisoners. MATC was one of the first colleges selected to participate in this program in 2016. “I always say the best part of my job is celebrating the successes of persons in our care with their families, our staff and supporters from the community. It's not the same, because I cannot be there in person to feel all the pride and love around our graduates, but I know you feel it," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr said during the virtual graduation ceremony. The graduates honored Friday morning completed their studies online at five separate DOC institutions. Redgranite Correctional Institution - 1 graduate Robert E Ellsworth Correctional Center - 4 graduates Racine Correctional Institution - 3 graduates Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution - 3 graduates Jackson Correctional Institution - 3 graduates
The graduate speaker was Kyle Hansen, who is in DOC care at Jackson Correctional Institution. He notes his grandmothers were his inspiration to earn a degree, and his son was his motivation. “To the rest of the world, my son is only one person. But to this person, he is the whole world, and my motivation for a better life and education," Hansen said. “I constantly emphasis to him the importance of working hard in school. I would be a hypocrite to not lead by example. I owe it to him to be the best man and father that I can possibly be, and education guides me to that." All the graduates earned either an Associate of Sciences or Associate of Arts degree from MATC, taking a minimum of six credits per semester. Governor Tony Evers, the Keynote Speaker for the ceremony, praised their determination to reach this day in the face of all obstacles. “It was a feat, but you did it. And we are all very proud of you and you should be proud of yourselves. And I know your families and loved ones are as well, as they celebrate with us today," Gov. Evers told the graduates. A 2013 study by RAND Corporation found that inmates who participate in correctional education programs had 43% lower odds of recidivism than those who did not. Also, their odds of getting a job post-release was 13% higher than those who did not participate in correctional education. “I was motivated by a sincere desire to make positive changes in my life to enhance the likelihood of a successful future," Hansen said, adding that he intends to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Business Management at UW-Milwaukee. “It is very easy to fall into the trap of sitting around and wasting time while serving a prison sentence; to simply count the years. I was motivated to not allow myself to fall into this trap and just simply count the years, but rather to make the years count. Because, anything lost can be found except for time wasted." Wisconsin DOC would like to thank its education services staff and MATC, Wisconsin's largest technical college, for all the work that went into making this day possible.
| | | | | 8/24/2020 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Mary Muse has spent a quarter century working in correctional healthcare, a career honored when the American Academy of Nursing (AAN) included Muse among its class of 2020 Fellows. The Academy announced the new Fellows earlier this month, and it will recognize Muse and the other 2020 honorees in a virtual ceremony in October. “This is an exciting time for me and a huge honor to have my work in correctional nursing and health care recognized," said Muse, the Chief Nursing Officer/Nursing Director for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC). “Twenty-five years ago, I committed to improving health care for incarcerated persons, elevating the level of nursing practice in corrections, and increasing the visibility of correctional nursing within the nursing industry and the public." An invitation to be a Fellow represents accomplishments within the nursing profession and the ability to transform the American Health Systems. It marks a significant milestone in a nurse leader's career to have their accomplishments honored by their colleagues within the profession. Previously-elected Fellows review hundreds of applications and select new Fellows based on contributions to advance the public's health. “To have the privilege to now stand with some of my previous professors and nurse theorists who were once part of my academic study is huge," Muse explained. “I am proud to stand with other nursing professionals whose work and contributions are nationally recognized; individuals who have advanced the science of nursing, influenced health policy and improved care delivery for patients." Most Fellows come from academia, and a review of recently-elected Fellows shows Muse is the first Fellow to come from the field of corrections since at least 2013. Those who have worked with Muse during her 11 years at the Wisconsin DOC are not surprised to see her break through. “Mary stresses nursing accountability and competency. And she challenges nursing and other health care professions to be the best they can be for the betterment of the health care delivery team and, ultimately, the patient," said Steve Linn, a Health Services Nursing Coordinator at the DOC. “Mary strives in her work and oversight of others to increase health equality, especially around the issue of health care access for the underserved and at-risk patient population, while maintaining the overall focus of improving patient population health and health care delivery outcomes."
Muse says friends and colleagues have encouraged her to submit an application for the honor for several years. The process requires defining how one has contributed to advancing nursing and policy, as well as sponsorship from two current academy Fellows.
“To have correctional health recognized suggests others are increasingly understanding the connection between correctional health and public health, and greater appreciation of how the social determinants impact and are linked to incarceration," Muse said.
| | Mary Muse, Chief Nursing Officer of Wisconsin Department of Corrections | | | 8/13/2020 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — A major investment in technology is helping bring the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) into the 21st Century, while speeding up DOC services and saving the agency money. The DOC's Division of Community Corrections (DCC) officially switched over to an electronic case filing system on Wednesday, the culmination of a project that started more than two years ago. “Previously, each client under DCC supervision had a paper file," explained DCC Region 1 Assistant Regional Chief Jay Laufenberg, who along with Sally Tess co-chaired the work group that led the project. “They could be anywhere from less than an inch thick to several inches thick." The old paper files contained all documentation related to DCC clients, from supervision history to any investigative documents. Starting Wednesday, all newly-created client files and related documents will be entered into the OnBase software installed by the DOC's Bureau of Technology Management. The new system has multiple benefits. “With staff working remotely, they can now access documents from home or from anywhere else in the state," he said, adding that the new system also saves the cost of mailing heavy, paper files to other DCC offices when a client moves to another region of the state. In addition, the change to electronic filing removes the need for DCC staff to scan paper documents related to public records requests. Roughly 1,600 DCC staff members have undergone training in recent months on how to use the new system, and Laufenberg says he has heard positive feedback. “One agent, after reviewing the training video, sent us a message about how excited they were," he said. Laufenberg knows not all the feedback will be that positive. The agency has set up a mailbox where agents can ask questions or offer advice as DCC works through this change.
| | | | | 1/7/2021 | | (CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis.) — A new correctional job center at Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility (CVCTF) will help individuals there prepare for careers once they reenter the community. The CVCTF site marks the fifth collaboration between Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development (DWD) and Department of Corrections (DOC) on a correctional job center. CVCTF redesigned and restructured an existing space within the institution's school building to make it feel and operate like a community job center. The space includes secure computer workstations for staff and persons in DOC care, and artwork intended to inspire those working in the space to envision their future outside the institution. The facility will provide individuals incarcerated in the minimum-security institution access to programs and services related to career readiness, job search assistance, resume development, veteran services, apprenticeship resources, and assistance for individuals with disabilities. “The job center is a major addition to our facility, and working with several external and internal partners in this development has been exciting," said CVCTF Warden Tim Nelson. “Approximately 600 men release from CVCTF back into the community each year, and the majority need meaningful and active employment upon their release. The programs available through this job center increase their chances for successful reentry into the community after completing the Earned Release Program." Restructure work wrapped up in early December and DOC is currently working to install DWD software on computers in the correctional job center. Once that is complete, DOC staff will receive training in preparation of a potential soft launch in late January. DWD Job Service staff and the local workforce development board are also working with DOC institution leadership to coordinate hours of operation inside the center, ensuring those close to release have opportunities to use the space and benefit from the many resources available. “We are excited to continue this meaningful partnership with DOC," DWD Secretary-designee Amy Pechacek said. “In addition to the workforce programs and services, DWD and workforce board staff are working with employers throughout the state to create stronger linkages between the persons in DOC care and employers ensuring that interviews can be conducted prior to release back to the community and linking persons with the resources needed to be successful.“ Persons who use the correctional job center will create a Job Center of Wisconsin (JCW) account, allowing them to craft a resume and cover letter, then to research for open positions, apply and, in some cases, even set up interviews with employers while still incarcerated. Those same JCW accounts can be accessed once they are released, offering a smoother transition from incarceration into the community. “We are very proud to expand the partnership between DOC and DWD," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “DOC's first institution-based job center came online in 2018. By the end of 2021, correctional job centers will be operating at ten DOC institutions across the state, helping fill the needs of Wisconsin's workforce while providing opportunities to those looking for work upon release from incarceration." The collaboration aids employers in tight labor markets and in-demand fields, prompting them to consider qualified candidates with a criminal record. Additionally, the services and resources available through the correctional job centers help reduce employment barriers for justice-involved individuals.
| | | | | 12/1/2020 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) has started the process of closing a cell hall at Waupun Correction Institution (WCI), which is expected to decrease the institution's population approximately 20%. A majority of the roughly 220 individuals being moved from WCI, a maximum-security institution, are classified as medium-security and will be moved to various medium-security DOC institutions across Wisconsin over the next few months. “We have been working for more than a year on various ways to better align our institution populations, moving more persons in our care to sites consistent with their security classification. We want more individuals classified as medium security living in medium-security institutions and more individuals classified as minimum security moved into minimum-security institutions." said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “Our adult population is at the lowest point it has been in two decades, which gives us the available space to make these moves." The move also helps alleviate long-standing staff vacancy issues at WCI, the oldest correctional facility in the state with parts of the building dating back to the 1850s. The proposed decrease in WCI's population will lower the number of direct staffed posts by eight per day, and eliminate daily relief positions needed for the cell hall to further reduce staffing needs. “Because there are several other DOC institutions in Dodge County and the surrounding area, it has been more difficult to find and recruit new, potential employees in that geographic region," said DOC Division of Adult Institutions Administrator Makda Fessahaye. “We've taken many steps to try and address vacancy rates at Waupun. We think closing the cell hall will help address staffing while meeting the alignment goals of our agency." “The vacancy issues at WCI are not tied to any one, particular factor and did not happen overnight, so we cannot expect to take one step and fix them all at once," Sec. Carr added. “But we think it is a step in the right direction." Transfers of the 220 people at WCI are already underway and are expected to continue through the end of February, though COVID-19 outbreaks could lead to delays. As they are transferred to medium-security institutions, there will be corresponding transfers of minimum-classified individuals to minimum-security facilities.
| | Waupun Correctional Institution | | | 12/23/2020 | | (TAYCHEEDAH, Wis.) — The non-profit group, Camp Reunite, and its staff members teamed up with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) to deliver some special holiday gifts over the weekend.
The Saturday and Sunday deliveries wrapped up six days of stops across eastern Wisconsin, delivering gifts to children from their incarcerated parents. “Providing gifts donated from Kapco's Kids 2 Kids Christmas has been a blessing for the campers," said Camp Reunite Co-Founder Andrew Gappa. “Seeing their smiles, filled with excitement, brings hope to their holidays and makes the holiday season extra special." The volunteers made 53 stops and delivered 375 gifts to 125 children of individuals currently serving a sentence at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution or Taycheedah Correctional Institution. The gifts ranged from basketballs, to art supplies and board games. “Seeing the joy on the kids' faces when they received their gifts from Camp Reunite and their moms is not something we will forget," said Jaime Gyr, a social worker at Taycheedah Correctional Institution. “We have seen over and over the positive impact this camp has on the kids and their moms. We are so thankful for being part of this wonderful program!" The gift deliveries were an extension of Camp Reunite, a program that offers trauma-informed camp activities for kids ages 8-17 who have a parent incarcerated in the Wisconsin Correctional System. The program started in 2018 at Taycheedah Correctional Institution, a part of the Wisconsin Women's Correctional System, as a week-long summer camp that explored ways to help kids cope with separation from their mother. It included two extended visits to see their incarcerated parent. A winter version of Camp Reunite was later added to the calendar in December, and the program was also expanded to a men's institution, Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution, for the first time this summer. Both the summer and winter camps in 2020 have switched to virtual visitation with the parent, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the gifts, 97 kids received camp supplies ahead of the virtual Camp Reunite in which they will participate December 28-30. Parents at Taycheedah and Kettle Moraine Correctional institutions will join their children for activities like scavenger hunts and a movie watch party. If you'd like to donate to Camp Reunite and help expand its mission, please connect with staff by going to www.campreunite.org.
| | | | | 4/8/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) – In late 2020, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) facilitated a staff climate and engagement survey, the agency's first since 2017. Staff responses, expressed through that survey, will be important in helping DOC leadership better understand the needs and desires of staff, and in shaping future decisions regarding the agency. In addition, in line with DOC's strategic priority of Transparency and Public Accountability, the agency has made the results of the anonymous survey available to the public.
DOC has posted Climate and Engagement Survey dashboards here on its public website. The dashboard provides a great deal of information and allows you to break out responses by work location, job category, division, race and gender. Overall, DOC found significantly high scores in some areas, as well as areas where our agency can make improvements to ensure everyone at DOC feels valued. Protecting anonymity was a priority for DOC in collecting the survey results and reporting them. As a result, if the number of responses is too small when drilling down into a category, the information will not be populated. That is also the reason job groupings are only broken down into three large categories. In addition, certain locations may have only a very small portion of a certain race, age group or gender identity. Where that occurs, the information will not populate to ensure individuals are not easily identified.
| | | | | 4/15/2021 | | (UNION GROVE, Wis.) — A Job Center has opened at Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center (REECC) in Union Grove, marking the 5th collaboration between the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) and Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Develop (DWD) on an institution-based Job Center. “We're excited because this will allow the more than 400 individuals releasing from REECC each year to set up job interviews with employers before their release and, in some cases, have job offers waiting for them when they return to their community," said DOC Secretary Kevin A. Carr. “This partnership between DOC, DWD, and employers is changing the lives of individuals re-entering their communities by linking them with the resources they need to be successful." The Job Center provides people at the minimum custody facility access to career readiness programs, job search assistance, resume development, services for veterans and registered apprenticeships. It also offers assistance for people with disabilities. Those who use the Job Center will create a Job Center of Wisconsin (JCW) account, allowing them to look for jobs, apply, and set up interviews with employers while still incarcerated. The opening of the REECC Job Center was originally scheduled for the spring of 2020. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a delay. It will eventually be staffed by individuals from the Workforce Development Board of Southeastern Wisconsin, as well as local DWD Job Service staff. With access to the institution currently limited to essential personnel, DOC staff have been trained to assist those using the Job Center. "With the opening of the REECC Job Center, DWD continues to expand the workforce readiness opportunities we are offering at correctional facilities across Wisconsin," DWD Secretary-designee Amy Pechacek said. "This critical partnership with the Department of Corrections helps people who have been incarcerated find meaningful employment when they return to their communities." All three of the facilities in the Wisconsin Women's Correctional System now have a Job Center. By the end of 2021, DOC expects to have Job Centers helping people at ten of its institutions across the state. The growth in Job Centers is the latest evidence of the Evers administration's commitment to reentry services and efforts to help people be successful upon return to their communities, a commitment that is reflected in the Governor's executive budget proposal, which includes: Nearly 60% of the population at REECC has one year or less left to serve with DOC and the primary programming is the Earned Release Program (ERP). Participants in this program will get at least three sessions in the Job Center before EPR graduation. DOC releases roughly 9,000 people from its care into the community each year. The Department's increase in institution-based Job Centers, funded by DWD, helps employers find workers to fill vacant positions and grow their business.
| | | | | 4/20/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) – The latest report from the court-ordered Monitor for Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School (LHS/CLS) was filed Tuesday and, for the sixth straight report, the Monitor found DOC in partial or substantial compliance with every aspect of the consent decree stemming from a 2017 lawsuit against the previous administration over conditions at LHS/CLS. The Monitor visited the schools on March 19, accompanied by an attorney from the ACLU, and interviewed 48 youth and 33 staff members. The 9th report of the Monitor noted, overall, a “significant improvement in many key areas and in the overall atmosphere" at LHS/CLS, while also pointing out some areas for improvement. “Our administration is proud of the steps we have taken at Lincoln Hills/Copper Lake over the past two years," said Department of Corrections Secretary Kevin Carr. “We look forward to working with the Monitor and engaging our staff in areas that can help lead to better outcomes for youth in our care." The report praised DOC and leadership at the schools for several initiatives, including: - Increasing staff-led activities for youth
- Incorporating the Psychological Services Unit more into daily operations
- Resuming in-person education
- Training/ongoing implementation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), the new behavior management system at the schools.
Among the prominent findings, the report provided data noting use of mechanical restraints on youth decreased 63% in this reporting period (Dec.-Feb.) and use of Administrative Confinement over the same period was reduced 36%. In addition, there has also been a precipitous decline in length of time a youth stays in Administrative Confinement. In November, the average length was 143 minutes, which was reduced to 74 minutes in February 2021. The report also singled out some of the programs for youth at the schools, including art, gardening, welding and a new music program being offered under psychological services. The Monitor's report stated the youth's projects were “very impressive" and that “creative outlet is meaningful for youth who are in prime stages of identity development." “We're really excited about our growing arts programming, especially our music program," said DOC Division of Juvenile Corrections Administrator Ron Hermes. “It's important to offer youth culturally relevant programs that provide them the opportunity to express themselves creatively. We are seeing the therapeutic impact that music has on our youth, and we are seeing that we have some very talented young writers and musicians who have something important to say through their music." The Monitor suggested LHS/CLS explore ways to offer these programs on nights and weekends to prevent idleness and boredom, which she believes has contributed to past behavior issues among youth at the schools during the pandemic. She also recommends LHS/CLS continue working towards a full schedule that provides meaningful activities and accountability for youth. The report also highlights the need for DOC to make staff wellness a major focus moving forward. It finds staff morale seemed improved over the previous visit and staff were more engaged with youth, but some staff appeared exhausted and stressed. Staff expressed concerns about having fewer “tools" available to manage behavior, youth acting out and working a significant amount of overtime. The Monitor emphasizes “staff wellness is a complex issue that impacts the overall culture, atmosphere and environment of the facility." To help address these concerns from staff, DOC has put added focus on communications with staff, including regularly-scheduled town hall meetings with the Superintendent of the schools. The Monitor also suggests DOC continue its work to improve the new behavior management system, progressing with DBT and improving youth incentives to help alleviate behavioral incidents. DOC brought teachers back on site in March to resume in-person education, both in the school building and in housing units, for the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic last spring. The past Monitor's report found remote learning was starting to have a negative impact on overall youth behaviors. In this report, she said she was, “pleased to see that during this site visit, youth were actively engaged in education both on and off the unit … There was a much more positive energy during this site visit."
| | | | | 4/21/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — April 18-24, 2021 is National Crime Victims' Rights Week (NCVRW), a week dedicated to raising awareness of victims' rights and services, highlighting programs, celebrating progress achieved and honoring victims and those who advocate on their behalf. NCVRW also creates an opportunity for communities to come together and reflect on the history of crime victims' rights. This year's themes are Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.
In the spirit of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, DOC's Office of Victim Services and Programs (OVSP) director, Elizabeth Lucas, spoke about how her office helps crime victims and the great work being done to support crime victims year-round:
What are a few things you'd like people to know about OVSP and the work your office does for crime victims?
I'd really like people both within the agency and members of the public to know that we're a great resource for anything victim-related. For example, if there are agents or correctional officers or other folks who come into contact with a victim and have no place to start, OVSP can be that starting point for them. If the folks at OVSP can't help them, we can link them to someone who can help them. Not only are we a good advocacy office for victims, but we're a good connector office. The goal of OVSP is to promote safety and restore some control in the lives of victims and others impacted by crime. When someone becomes a victim of crime, it's often something they never expected to happen in their life, and it's not something they can ever prepare for. When someone becomes a victim of crime, it can shift a person's worldview when they're traumatized in that way – it's a real shift that doesn't just affect them in one way. Part of what OVSP has found to be helpful is assisting victims in feeling like they can maintain some level of control over the decisions being made throughout the various processes they encounter. Victims often do not have much control over situations within the criminal justice system, and that can be difficult. They don't have control of whether their perpetrator is convicted, whether they will be incarcerated, or whether they are remorseful for their actions. Victims also cannot control the healing process, whether it's self-healing or the healing of a loved one. That's where OVSP comes in to try to make victims feel some semblance of control by providing as much information as possible and also providing trauma-informed support.
What are a few other ways that OVSP helps victims of crime? There are four main things that OVSP does for victims: - Notification Services through DOC NOTIS; we send out letters and emails to victims enrolled in our office, keeping them updated on any person in DOC's care or under community supervision
- Parole and Revocation Information; we act as a support person for victims throughout the parole and revocation process, and we provide information to them. OVSP tries to make it clear that we don't have any authority over parole decisions or recommendations, we are strictly there as a support person for them.
- Restorative Justice; there are a variety of ways for victims to communicate with persons in DOC's care, assuming that's what they want, or try to find some sense of understanding about what has happened to them. We're able to do this through our partnership with the UW Law School.
- Administration, Support and Technical Assistance for the Wisconsin VINE program; this is a service provided by OVSP in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, and it anonymously provides information and notifications regarding persons in custody in county jails to victims, law enforcement and the community.
What are some of the best ways for a victim of a crime or a loved one of a victim of crime to get in touch with your office?
Right now there are two ways that are best to contact us. The preferred way is for people to email us, because we're all working remotely right now. The general OVSP email box can be reached at DOCOVSPAdmin@wisconsin.gov. We also have a phone number that rings in our office, and these messages are checked daily. The local number is 608-240-5888, and the toll-free number is 1-800-947-5777. We also encourage folks to check out our public web page here for additional information and resources. We strongly encourage our outside partners, such as District Attorneys and Law Enforcement, and our internal partners such as agents and anyone involved with possible victims to refer these folks to OVSP or to call our office to take it from there if that's helpful. One thing that I want to mention is that OVSP will help any victim who calls or reaches out to our office. However, our primary area of expertise is working with victims post-conviction. There are lots of victim agencies out there – a lot of times, victims are working with their local victim witness office or a community-based victim advocate throughout the trial or arrest process. OVSP doesn't become involved until a person is convicted and transferred into the custody of the Department of Corrections. Elizabeth also shared a few key accomplishments of her office within the last fiscal year. OVSP has proudly surpassed all of its grant objectives and goals by issuing over 33,000 notifications to victims (goal was 18,000), notifying 1,634 victims of parole hearings (goal was 1,200), assisting 610 victims within the revocation process (goal was 90) and providing information and support related to Persons in our Care to 11,344 unique victims (goal was 1,800). The DOC is proud of the work being done by the Office of Victim Services and Programs and would like to recognize their achievements as we also celebrate the 40th anniversary of NCVRW.
| | | | | 4/27/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — In celebration of Reentry Week, DOC is highlighting some of the great work being done related to vocational education for the Persons in our Care (PIOC) to help prepare them to successfully return to their communities after incarceration. Three of these key initiatives include a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) program at Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center (REECC), an Electro-Mechanical Mobile Training Lab at New Lisbon Correctional Institution (NLCI) and an Electro-Mechanical Program at Oakhill Correctional Institution (OCI).
REECC, a minimum security center for incarcerated females, is currently operating its 6th cohort of the CNC program. They began on March 13 with fourteen enrolled students. Each can earn 16 college credits while working towards obtaining their CNC Operators Certificate from Gateway Technical College (GTC). This project is part of a continued collaboration between DOC and GTC to improve pre-release workforce training opportunities for PIOC. Although this is the 6th CNC cohort at REECC, this is the first where instruction and training is being delivered virtually to students at REECC by Gateway instructors. Previously, students attended classes in-person at the GTC campus. “I decided to enroll in the CNC Program not only because is it a wonderful opportunity to be given while incarcerated, but it also opens up a number of doors as I further both my education and career upon release," said Bethny Hilgeman, a student currently enrolled in the CNC program. “I knew a little something about CNC prior, as my little brother has been an operator for some time now."
When asked what the program has been like for her, Hilgeman responded, “This education program means the world to me, and I am forever grateful for this opportunity. The program has its challenges; throwing COVID in the mix and having to do everything virtual has only added obstacles, but I like a good challenge! The rewarding outcome far outweighs the downsides. This is my time to come out a strong, stable and loving mother – and on top of all that, I'll graduate with confidence, integrity and determination."
Another student currently in the program, Mary Froust, echoed Bethny's sentiment. “This education program means a chance at life; it's all the hope I've held onto for a future, for a normal life, coming to fruition," stated Froust. “I enrolled in the CNC program to learn a new trade that I would be able to put to use upon my release and to increase my chances of finding employment. It means I don't have to wonder how I will find a job once I'm released, that I can be independent." Both students also expressed gratitude for those who have helped along the way: “I just want to thank the people that have believed in and battled for this program, going the extra mile to make this happen," said Froust. “Thank you for having a part in changing my life and helping me become the best version of myself for my future."
“I am forever grateful for this opportunity, and for all of the hard work that our instructor puts in advocating for us," said Hilgeman. “All the running around to meet with teachers to trade assignments or pick up tools, countless emails, always reliable and always there. She is our biggest cheerleader." More training is taking place at NLCI, a medium-security male institution, where the Electro-Mechanical Mobile Lab is currently running its second cohort. This mobile lab was purchased by a critical partner of DOC, the Department of Workforce Development (DWD). Ten students are working towards obtaining their Electro-Mechanical Certificate from Western Technical College (WTC). In order to complete the certificate, students complete 12 credits through both classroom instruction and hands-on training in the Electro-Mechanical Mobile Lab led by Mike Boyko, a WTC Instructor. The Electro-Mechanical program helps students acquire the knowledge and skills to succeed in the field of high-tech manufacturing.
“It's something productive I can do with my time in prison to put myself in a better position going forward," said one student in the program. “Participating in this program makes me feel a little more normal and less like an inmate for a little bit."
OCI, a minimum-security male institution, has a similar program. In April, nine students completed a 16-credit Electro-Mechanical program. Students who complete the program receive two technical certificates, Basic Industrial Power and Electrical Maintenance. The technical certificates provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely assist mechanics in repairing, overhauling, installing, testing and inspecting mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment, as well as pneumatic and hydraulic systems. In addition, students will be able to assist in performing preventive and predictive maintenance on equipment, building and grounds.
The Electro-Mechanical program at OCI started last fall after planning and collaboration to deliver all classes virtually via Madison College's Learning Management System, Blackboard. All lecture-based classes were completed in the first semester of the program. The lab-based classes (Fluid Power 1 & 2 and Industrial Electricity & Controls) were scheduled for the second semester in order to assess pandemic conditions and determine if face-to-face instruction would be possible.
DOC releases approximately 9,000 people from its care into the community each year (see link to DOC's release dashboard here). The Department's increase in vocational programming allows employers to more easily find qualified workers for vacant positions to grow their business. These are just a few of the many ways DOC and its many partners work collaboratively to connect people with opportunities that will prepare them to find meaningful employment in a high-wage and in-demand field upon their release. The Department is proud to recognize these achievements as we celebrate Reentry Week.
| | | | | 4/28/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections' (DOC) expansion of its Earned Release Program (ERP) is already paying dividends due to the program being available at four new sites within the last 6-9 months. Several groups of minimum custody individuals participated in ERP at Stanley Correctional Institution, Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution and Jackson Correctional Institution beginning in the spring of 2020. New Lisbon Correctional Institution will graduate its first group on May 28th. Under policy changes that took effect on April 12th, those four institutions will now open their doors for enrollments of people in DOC care with a medium custody classification. DOC is also in the early stages of planning an ERP at another medium security facility, Redgranite Correctional Institution. ERP is an early release treatment program for eligible individuals in DOC care who have a substance abuse disorder, and it is among the few means through which a person incarcerated in Wisconsin can earn release before their mandatory release date. Wisconsin DOC created an ERP Expansion Committee that, last year, recommended ways to expand the program, including:
- Allowing people classified as medium custody to enroll. Previously, it was only for those classified as minimum custody
- Allowing people to enroll within 48 months of their release, expanding from the previous 36 months
- Allowing for multiple completions in ERP for the same case
“One of the priorities of our agency is to reduce Wisconsin's prison population in a safe manner that maintains public safety, and ERP provides a great opportunity to meet that priority," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “The Earned Release Program is also a meaningful way to give persons in our care the skills necessary to be successful upon release and provide treatment for their clinical needs.
The ERP policy changes, which took effect in April, are expected to help an additional 700 people in DOC care complete ERP annually, further boosting completion numbers that are already trending upward in recent years:
- 2018: 1,885
- 2019: 1,909
- 2020: 2,122
Gov. Tony Evers has shown a commitment to reentry efforts, in general, and ERP, in particular, in his 2021-23 Executive Budget Proposal, which provides $3.4 million in funding and creates 27 positions to expand the treatment capacity of the Earned Release Program. The budget also recommends expanding ERP beyond substance abuse programs to include educational, vocational, treatment or other qualifying training programs that are evidence-based to reduce recidivism.
“When people re-enter our communities, we want them to have the tools they need to be successful," said Lisa Reible, Director of the Office of Program Services for the Division of Adult Institutions. “Evidence-based programs like ERP provide those tools."
Other facilities currently offering ERP are Black River Correctional Center, Drug Abuse Correctional Center, Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility, Flambeau Correctional Center, Milwaukee Women's Correctional Center, Oakhill Correctional Institution, Oshkosh Correctional Institution, Prairie du Chien Correctional Institution, Racine Correctional Institution, Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center and Taycheedah Correctional Institution.
There are currently 55 groups participating in ERP at various DOC facilities across the state.
| | | | | 4/29/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Successful reentry means much more than avoiding future incarceration. To the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, it means connecting people with the services that will support them – from maintaining employment and finding stable housing to accessing continuous care upon their release. After concerns surfaced in May 2020 about the negative impacts the pandemic might have on individuals with serious mental illness on community supervision, the Department applied for the Collaborative Mental Health and Anti-Recidivism Initiative grant to expand critical services to those not eligible for the Opening Avenues to Reentry Success program, or OARS. The OARS program helps persons in our care living with serious mental illnesses transition to life after incarceration by providing intensive case management, housing, links to psychiatric treatment and other individualized needs that successfully reduce recidivism and improve mental health recovery outcomes. A joint partnership between DOC and the Department of Health Services (DHS), the program has been serving individuals releasing from prison since the fall of 2010. Individuals must have a serious mental illness and be at medium or high risk to reoffend to be referred to OARS, and must also be releasing to one of the 51 covered counties, have at least six months of supervision remaining in the community, be willing to cooperate with their case managers and participate in the program. OARS participants are referred by their assigned release planners 6-8 months prior to release from prison and can remain in the program for up to two years in the community. In November 2020, the U.S. Department of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded the DOC nearly $900,000 in grant funding to develop similar services for individuals who are not eligible for the OARS program. The grant will be available over a three year period and will be used to serve participants statewide, ensuring that county of residence does not influence whether or not one receives case management and psychiatric services. The OARS2 concept was developed in collaboration between DOC leadership and several community partners who worked together to build an effective and comprehensive referral, service, discharge and program evaluation plan. Those partners include Department of Health Services OARS and WRC staff, Wisconsin Community Services (WCS), Lutheran Social Services (LSS), Adult Care Consultants, Journey Mental Health Center and Legal Action of Wisconsin. The program will increase the likelihood individuals with serious mental illness on supervision can stay in the community to continue treatment and access to pro-social supports. This kind of shared commitment from federal, state and community partners will decrease recidivism, improve mental health treatment opportunities and reduce the number of individuals returning to prison. Governor Tony Evers continues to demonstrate a commitment to general reentry efforts in his 2021-23 Executive Budget Proposal, which includes $5,260,200 in additional funding for the OARS program over the next biennium. This funding will allow the program to reach functional capacity in 51 counties, serving everyone who meets program criteria and agrees to participate in the program. The funding will also ensure more continuity of mental health care and services for individuals with serious mental illness leaving prison and returning to Wisconsin communities. | | | | | 4/30/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections showed support for its correctional brothers and sisters in Iowa this week, delivering a pair of memorial benches dedicated to the two Iowa Department of Corrections employees killed while on duty last month at Anamosa State Penitentiary.
The benches were part of a Pay It Forward campaign by Wisconsin DOC, which also included individualized plaques and more than $2,000 in donations for the impacted families. Wisconsin DOC also delivered more than 700 gift bags for Anamosa employees dealing with the loss of their colleagues, each of which included a card with a message from Wisconsin DOC Secretary Kevin Carr.
“The Wisconsin Department of Corrections offers our deepest condolences to all of the colleagues affected by the recent tragedy that resulted in the loss of two corrections professionals," the card read. “I hope these gift bags can offer a small sense of support and comfort in the midst of this tragedy, and serve as a reminder that you are not alone. Your Corrections brothers and sisters across the nation are thinking of you, and praying for solace and peace during this difficult time."
On March 23, nurse Lorena Schulte and correctional officer Robert McFarland were found lying on the floor of the prison's infirmary. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation says the employees were intervening to stop an attempted escape of two men now charged with their murder.
Wisconsin Division of Adult Institutions Assistant Administrator Paul Kemper, Wisconsin Secure Prison Facility Warden Gary Boughton and Program Director Trina Kroening-Skime delivered the benches and gift bags to Anamosa on Wednesday. The bags included things like candy, gum, stress balls and gift cards. Staff at Anamosa expressed their appreciation and noted they have been overwhelmed with the amount of support they have received in the weeks following the tragedy.
| | Anamosa State Penitentiary | | | 4/30/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Raising a child can be overwhelming for many, and those challenges are magnified for parents involved in the justice system. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) recognized the need for an evidence-based program that addresses the unique challenges faced by parents in DOC care and their children. In 2019, the DOC's Reentry Unit partnered with The Pathfinders Network at UW-Madison's School of Social Work to implement the Parenting Inside Out-90 Hour (PIO-90) curriculum at Green Bay Correctional Institution (GBCI) and the Wisconsin Women's Correctional System's (WWCS) three facilities. Parenting Inside Out (PIO) fosters a collaborative approach between the participant and the parenting coach. In a classroom setting, parenting coaches lead students through a cognitive-behavioral parent management skills course to help them develop a parenting plan specific to the needs of their family. Parents identify the qualities/characteristics they hope their children will possess when they reach adulthood and, together, coaches and parents build a metaphor for their parenting journey on the Backbone Highway, depicted in the mural below that was painted by persons in DOC care at GBCI. The cars on this highway represent children and the gas station attendants represent parents who are responsible for fueling their children with helpful nurture and love. The words along the highway represent guardrails. The guardrails and signs symbolize the structure in parenting that will help children safely and successfully reach their destination, adulthood.
The program has proven to be successful. In a randomized controlled trial of 359 incarcerated mothers and fathers, participants showed a 34% reduction in post-release arrests, a 29% reduction in self-reported criminal behavior, significantly more positive parent-child contact and an increased use of positive reinforcement with their children.
Over FY20, thirteen social workers, recreation leaders, teachers and security staff at GBCI and the WWCS completed the 13-hour PIO-90 Facilitator Training and earned lead facilitator certification. Twenty-three persons in DOC care started the curriculum in late 2020, despite the challenges of COVID-19, with the first group at Milwaukee Women's Correctional Center successfully completing the program in early March. The remaining three sites anticipate additional completions in mid-2021. The UW-Madison School of Social Work continues to collaborate with facility staff to develop best practices, resources for caregivers and ongoing technical assistance. This work will continue throughout FY22.
| | PIO coach Captain Cummings stands next to the Learning Tree that was painted by PIOC at GBCI. The leaves are removed from the tree when parents believe they’ve achieved their personal learning goal. | | | 5/10/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) has added Month-End Prison Population dashboards to its public website in an effort to further improve transparency and public reporting of data. The Month-End Prison Population dashboards provide a recent snapshot of the population similar to what is available in DOC's Division of Adult Institutions At-a-Glance brochures, only the dashboards provide the option of using filters to retrieve more specific data about the current DOC population. “Transparency and public accountability are among our priorities," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “A sizeable number of the data requests our agency receives involve the current prison population, so we thought it only fitting that we make it more accessible and easier for the public to drill down into that data." “Because our other prison population dashboards show historical trends and aren't updated monthly, we wanted to have something separate that could be used to get at data related to current PIOC," said Dr. Megan Jones, DOC Research and Policy Director. The new dashboards allow anyone to see the demographics – age, gender, ethnicity, etc. – of the population at each DOC institution at the end of every month. They always reflect the population on the last day of the previous month, and will be updated with new data between the 16th and 20th of each month. For example, between May 16 and May 20, the dashboards will be updated with data for the prison population on the last day of April.
| | | | | 5/12/2021 | | In an effort to increase the efficiency of its public records responsibilities and meet its strategic initiative of Transparency and Public Accountability, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections recently launched a new Public Records Center that provides the public an easy way to file public records requests, receive updates and retrieve records. The new online DOC Public Records Center, managed by DOC's Office of Records Management, provides a centralized portal for filing DOC public records requests, processing requests, and posting and retrieving public records. New users can set up an account by providing a name and, at minimum, an email address. Once an account has been established, users can log into their own personal Records Center to file a new records request, check the status of a previous request, review communications or retrieve records. If someone wants to file a request anonymously, the DOC Public Records Center includes an option for that, as well. New capabilities built into the DOC Public Records Center will allow the state's largest agency to be as efficient and expeditious as possible, while uniformly managing the thousands of records requests filed with DOC each year. “DOC processes far more public records requests than any other state agency, averaging more than 3,300 requests in each of the past five years. In 2019, the agency received a record 3,881 requests for public records," said Nathan Harper, Director of the DOC's Office of Records Management. “That's why we are focused on making the process as efficient as possible." The new DOC Public Records Center will be used to manage all requests for DOC public records. However, use of the system to file a request is not mandatory and all requests, regardless of how they are communicated to DOC, will be met.
| | | | | 5/28/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The leaders of Wisconsin's Department of Corrections (DOC) and Department of Children and Families (DCF) recently took a tour of the GROW Academy, a residential program offering comprehensive treatment for County and State-supervised youth as an alternative to incarceration, as well as a step down for DOC-supervised youth returning to the community. The visit to the facility in Oregon coincided with the early Spring growing season and Earth Week activities across Wisconsin.
“It's so inspiring to be out here in the spring to see everything starting to grow," said DCF Secretary Emilie Amundson. “Especially with Earth Day and the metaphor of thinking about youth and growth. This is about the youth and it's about what they need to be successful, contributing adults, and I think that's where DOC and DCF can really come together. We think about the youth, their treatment needs and really supporting them through enriching programs and evidence-based practices." “The kids that graduate from the GROW Academy tend to do well when they return to their community," said DOC Sec. Kevin Carr. “After being given this opportunity, they have a different perspective." GROW utilizes community-based programming and an agricultural-based curriculum to help youth who may struggle to learn in a traditional classroom setting. The facility creates opportunities for youth to work with animals, build in the woodshop, tend to their own garden plots and prepare and cook their own dishes. The youth occasionally compete in an “Iron Chef"-style showdown to see who can create the best dish. Youth in the program have the ability to plan their own garden plot using seedlings grown in the school, helping them feel a sense of responsibility and connection. They are then allowed to give the produce they grow to family or choose to make fun recipes of their own. The youth learn about much more than organic farming. Program components include:
- Aquaponic technology for seedling growth
- Composting
- Nutrition and meal planning, meal preparation
- Marketing and sales skills
- Restorative justice
- Financial literacy
- Job readiness and employment placement
During their visit, Secretaries Carr and Amundson met 16-year-old Keyshawn, a youth who recently completed his time at GROW and shared how the program benefitted him. “One thing I learned here is just connecting with people," said Keyshawn. “Really connecting with people based off their backgrounds and things they like. Connecting with people is pretty much everything, you're going to have to make connections with people everywhere you go." When asked if he ever saw himself taking part in some of the everyday activities at GROW, such as working with chickens and growing plants, Keyshawn responded, “To be honest, I didn't really see myself anywhere until I got here." GROW Academy operates on an incentive-based behavioral system that allows youth to start fresh every day. This system recognizes not every day is going to be a great day, but each day is an opportunity to start fresh. The structure identifies individual strengths, motivates youth to make positive decisions, and provides rewards for meeting expectations and taking initiative to go above and beyond. Rewards and privileges include the use of MP3 players, access to the TV room, off-grounds recreational activities such as field trips and extra phone calls. The youth at GROW also take part in traditional curriculum. A school is located on the grounds, where youth are taught by a full-time, licensed teacher. On average, youth earn three high school credits in math, science, reading and social studies. Due to COVID-19, GROW is currently in use as a day report center, meaning youth are dropped off in the morning and picked up at 5:00 PM every day during the week. However, staff at GROW are excited to report they are in the process of transitioning back to a live-in facility, with youth scheduled to arrive for residential programming beginning in early June.
| | | | | 6/7/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Wisconsin's Department Corrections (DOC), in consultation with Wisconsin's Department of Health Services (DHS), has determined it is safe for the state's correctional facilities to begin the transition back to normal activities, including in-person visitation with the proper precautions beginning July 6. This decision is based on a real and sustained downward trend in COVID-19 infections across the state and in DOC facilities.
“We are very happy to again offer in-person visits," said DOC Sec. Kevin A Carr. “Soon after the pandemic began, we transitioned to video visits as a way to protect our staff, persons in our care and Wisconsin communities. Now, with COVID-19 infection numbers down and vaccination rates up, those in our care and their loved ones can again enjoy each other's company face-to-face." Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the safety of DOC staff and persons in DOC care has been a top priority. After months of COVID-19 surveillance and outbreak investigations in DOC facilities, cases are down substantially while vaccination rates continue to climb. Wisconsin DOC's COVID-19 dashboards indicate only 11 active cases currently among the more than 19,000 people in the department's custody across 37 institutions. In addition, the dashboards show 57% of DOC's population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and more than 90% of those who have not declining vaccination have received at least one dose. “Vaccination is an incredible tool against COVID-19," said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “The level of vaccination rates we are seeing in DOC institutions and Wisconsin communities allows in-person visitation to resume safely in these facilities, with precautions in place." Those precautions include: - Modified or different visiting rooms that allow for appropriate physical distancing
- Cleaning protocols for visitation areas
- New entrance procedures for visitors, which will include a COVID-19 screening for temperature and symptoms conducted by security staff
- Masks will be worn by staff, persons in our care and visitors age two and up, per CDC guidelines
- No sharing of food or drinks between visitors and persons in DOC care
For a full list of COVID-19 precautions and other visitation guidance please visit the Resuming In-Person Visitation page on DOC's website.
“We understand being able to see loved ones in-person, in some cases for the first time in close to 18 months, will be an emotional experience for many. However, due to continued COVID-19 activity throughout the state, we're putting safety precautions in place when face-to-face visitation resumes on July 6 to protect those still vulnerable to COVID-19." Sec. Carr said. If COVID-19 cases in a specific DOC facility or surrounding community begin to rise during this transition period or after July 6, face-to-face visitation may be suspended again at that facility. DOC will consider several factors, including the opinion of health experts at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, in determining if face-to-face visitation needs to be suspended at a DOC facility. DOC expects initial demand for in-person visits to be high. Due to physical distancing and other preventative measures related to COVID-19, capacity in visitation areas has been decreased. However, DOC institutions will attempt to honor up to two face-to-face visits per week for each person in our care at most facilities. In addition, DOC will continue to offer a video visit option to augment in-person visitation, and create more opportunities for those in our care and their loved ones to stay connected. Each person in DOC care will also continue to receive two free phone calls per week until DOC returns fully to pre-pandemic operations. People can begin to schedule in-person visits at 9am on Wednesday, June 16. Visitors are asked to schedule their in-person visits at least two business days (excludes Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) in advance. They are encouraged to schedule by emailing the same address they have been using to set up Zoom visits, which can be found by going to the individual institution's page on the DOC website. Those without internet access can call the institution's main line. Whether calling or emailing, visitors are asked to specify whether they are requesting a zoom or in-person visit. People on approved visitors' lists are eligible for visits. Initially, up to three approved visitors will be allowed for a specific visit. Relationship does not matter but at least one visitor must be an adult. Vaccination is not required and all visitors, regardless of vaccination status, must abide by the mask requirements. The Department is also transitioning to a safe restart of other areas of pre-pandemic operations, including work release, project crews, volunteer and religious visits. Resumption of these programs may vary by facility, and anyone with questions about these programs should contact the institution directly or email DOCGeneral@wisconsin.gov.
| | | | | 6/21/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Wisconsin's Department of Corrections (DOC) raised the Juneteenth Flag at its Central Office building in Madison on Friday, marking the first time the agency has flown the flag. Several DOC institutions and offices also raised the Juneteenth Flag over the weekend, after the Governor's Office encouraged agencies to fly the flag at state buildings. Juneteenth is celebrated on June 19 because that is the date, in 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston and announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas were free, more than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. "Today, the fight for equity continues against the racial, economic and educational disparities that are deeply rooted in our nation's institutions," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr said to DOC staff that gathered for the flag raising on Friday. “Some of those disparities even exist within our own agency. At times, the fight can seem insurmountable, but history has shown that when people come together in the fight for a more just system, they can do great things." The Pride Flag has been flying, along with the United States and Wisconsin flags, at DOC's central office for Pride Month. The Pride Flag was taken down and the Juneteenth Flag raised Friday morning. The Juneteenth Flag flew throughout the weekend. The Pride Flag will be raised again on Monday and fly through the remainder of the month. | | | | | 6/23/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Wisconsin is well known as “America's Dairyland" for the amount of milk, cheese and other dairy products the state produces, with the dairy industry contributing more than $45.6 billion to Wisconsin's economy each year. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections' (DOC) Bureau of Correctional Enterprises (BCE) has three agricultural sites where persons in DOC care at Oakhill Correctional Institution and John Burke Correctional Center develop marketable skills and gain work experience to assist their transition back to the community. The Oregon Farm and Waupun Farm/Fox Lake Farms produce a variety of crops, including alfalfa, corn, soybeans and wheat, that feed the 1,100 milk cows and heifers raised onsite, helping BCE farms produce an average of 40,000 pounds of milk per day. The Waupun Dairy takes the raw milk produced at these two sites and processes it into five-gallon and half-pint containers of skim milk and individual servings of ice cream and sherbet, which are sold to Wisconsin correctional facilities and mental health institutions, as well as Minnesota correctional facilities. While working for BCE is hard work, the approximately 415 jobs in BCE's three operational areas (i.e., agriculture, industries and logistics) are highly desirable for persons in DOC care. BCE workers learn general work skills that help them in their transition back to the community and earn money to pay financial obligations so they have more stability upon release. “BCE workers are re-incarcerated at a lower rate than statistically similar persons in DOC care who did not work for BCE," said Wes Ray, BCE Director. The most recent data shows 71% of BCE workers have not returned to DOC custody three years after release. That's a rate about 3% higher than for statistically similar people who returned to the community and did not work for BCE. When asked about his experience as a BCE worker, Timothy said, “[I] have all the skills to work anywhere." The employer of another former BCE worker said that “[He] is awesome. He's one of my best employees. He's extremely motivated. Everything you want in an employee." Before returning to their families and the community, BCE's Transition team helps BCE workers with work search skills, potential job leads and connections with community service providers who can assist with their transition. The Transition team may also be able to provide short-term supplemental funds to former BCE workers for work-related items such as tools, special work clothing, transportation and rent. This June, let's raise a glass of milk to all of the BCE workers and staff to celebrate Dairy Month. | | | | | 7/12/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) and Department of Corrections (DOC) have collaborated on another institution-based Job Center. The Job Center at Prairie du Chien Correctional Institution (PDCI) opened with a soft launch on June 15. “We want the persons in our care to have a head start on finding a job when they're making the transition back to their community," said DOC Sec. Kevin Carr. “I'm very proud of the work our Reentry Unit is doing with DWD to extend opportunities at more institutions." The number of institution-based job centers has increased dramatically over the past year. PDCI is the third DOC facility to open a Job Center in 2021, for a total of six institution-based centers across DOC. There are plans to have Job Centers up and running at 10 DOC institutions, plus a mobile Job Center, before the end of the year. The Job Center at the minimum-security facility of PDCI is providing persons in our care with career readiness programing, job search assistance, resume development, services for veterans, and registered apprenticeships. It also offers assistance to people with disabilities. Those who use the Job Center will create a Job Center of Wisconsin (JCW) account, allowing them to search for jobs, apply, and set up interviews with employers while still incarcerated.
“DWD is dedicated to providing the people of Wisconsin opportunities for employment," said DWD Secretary-designee Amy Pehachek. “By providing workforce readiness opportunities through these Job Centers, we're expediting the process of persons in DOC care finding meaningful employment once they return to their communities."
The first group at PDCI to receive Jobs Center services will be five participants in DOC's Earned Release Program, who have an anticipated program completion date of July 16th. They are scheduled to access the Job Center on five separate occasions before they complete the program, receiving assistance from PDCI staff and virtual career services provided by DWD staff. DOC releases roughly 9,000 people from its care into the community each year, and more than 50% of PDCI's population has a year or less to serve with DOC. The increase in institution-based Job Centers, funded by DWD, assists them in getting a head start on their job search, and helps Wisconsin employers find workers to fill vacant positions and grow their businesses.
| | | | | 7/14/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School hosted the We Believe in YOU Awards on Wednesday, a ceremony to honor the outstanding work of individuals and groups across the Wisconsin Department of Correction's (DOC) Division of Juvenile Corrections. DOC Secretary Kevin Carr came to honor the award winners at the ceremony, then stayed to help serve lunch to LHS/CLS staff at the brat fry that followed. “It was a such a pleasure to be there for the We Believe in YOU Awards," said Sec. Carr. “To speak with the award winners and hear about the work they are doing was inspiring." Here is a list of those honored Wednesday and a summary their award-winning work: Cindy Leskey – For creating new, engaging activities that harvest a positive work environment, and creating projects focused around building trust with youth and their families. Jennifer McFadden – For ensuring staff had the technology they needed, the support to operate remotely, and that professional partnerships were maintained. Supervising Youth Counselors (Kurt Annis, Greg Brasure, Thomas Cimino, Rebecca Cleveland, Rafael Dones, Rosemary Esterholm, Matt Ferge, Kyle Hoff, Laura Kernan, Levi Lassa, Clyde Maxwell III, Brandi Maxwell, Curissa Mitchell, Luke Myszka, Brett Schafer, Jesse Severt, Jared Tomany, Chue Yang) – For implementing changes which have greatly reduced incidents of use-of-force, administrative confinement & mechanical restraints, while helping staff to work through challenges. J-Tracker Team (Holly Bester, Laura Gebhardt, Kristin Nissen) – For spearheading the transition to J-Tracker, one of the most significant and technically-challenging projects the Division has undertaken in recent decades. Youth Counselor Advanced Crisis Awareness Response Effort (CARE) Team (Chris Behling, Alan Gillis, Jean Iribarren, Rick Lamere, Whitney Annis, Patricia Soward) – For their work de-escalating situations by attempting to resolve issues and stressors with an end goal of the youth or living unit re-engaging in regular schedules. Building & Grounds Team (Trevor Asmundson, Darrin Heckendorf, Chuck Jacobs, Trevor Jacobs, Keith Jaecks, Dean Jaeger, Mike Kaplanek, Bill Schroeder, Mike Stockowitz, Tom Stockowitz, Quentin Trevino, Jeff Zahn) – For continuing to maintain a safe environment for youth through both planned and unplanned projects, while also mentoring and training youth. Music Recreation Team (Rich Ouimette and Dr. Maggie Watters) – For launching the Music Art Initiative, and individual-focused, trauma-informed program for youth that also promotes collaboration with living unit staff and provides a positive, artistic outlet.
| | | | | 7/15/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) is offering free COVID-19 vaccination to those visiting loved ones at some state correctional facilities.
In-person visitation resumed at DOC institutions on July 6 for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the suspension of in-person visits and other operations in March 2020. Doses are being offered to vaccine-eligible people coming for an in-person visit at six DOC facilities: Fox Lake Correctional Institution, Green Bay Correctional Institution, Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution, Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility, Stanley Correctional Institution and Taycheedah Correctional Institution. “We want to make it as easy as possible for the people of Wisconsin to become vaccinated against COVID-19,” said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “The ease of availability, having vaccine available at a site to which you are already travelling, is something this administration hopes people do not pass up.” In Wisconsin, 58.8% of the state’s 18-and-older population has been fully vaccinated. The rate is even higher in DOC institutions, with 67.2% of the Department’s eligible population fully vaccinated and the number increasing to 96% for those who have not declined vaccination. There are currently two active cases of COVID-19 among people in DOC care. “Vaccination is the best tool we have to protect ourselves, family members and loved ones from COVID-19,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “The level of vaccination rates we are seeing in Wisconsin communities have allowed in-person visitation to resume safely in DOC facilities. However, COVID-19 is still infecting unvaccinated people across our state, so we are working to make sure everyone who still needs a COVID-19 vaccine is able to get one. We are using all available avenues to make vaccination as easy as possible, including offering free COVID-19 vaccination during visits.” People who sign up for an in-person visit at the six identified facilities will be asked if they want a vaccine while there. The vaccine will be administered by DOC Health Services staff. Since resuming in-person visits this week, most DOC institutions report visitation running at about 50-75% of capacity, with some higher. Special rules are in place to protect against COVID-19 transmission during visits and, if COVID-19 cases in a specific DOC facility or surrounding community begin to rise, face-to-face visitation may be suspended again at that facility. | | | | | 7/20/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The last 16 months have been undeniably difficult on persons in our care (PIOC), their friends and family, and our staff due to the COVID-19 health pandemic. However, the DOC recently took an encouraging step forward on the road to a new normal, announcing the return of in-person visitation beginning July 6, 2021.
"Having in-person visits again with my husband after not seeing him for more than a year meant the world to both of us," said Michele W., who was able to visit a loved one at John C. Burke Correctional Center. "It helped us both feel reconnected and reassured that everything is getting back to a new normal after COVID."
The decision to resume in-person visits was made in consultation with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (WI DHS) and CDC guidelines to ensure the continued health and safety of those in our care, our staff, and our surrounding communities. There are several precautions that have been put into place to keep persons in our care (PIOC) and their loved ones safe during in-person visits, such as social distancing and a mask requirement for anyone two years or older.
The DOC also understands the importance of in-person visits for the well-being of those in our care and their loved ones, and the agency has been happy to see folks around the state overjoyed at the ability to see their loved ones in person once again.
"For me to see and hug my husband, my children to see their dad, and our granddaughter to finally meet her Papa, meant more than words can describe," said Liz L., who recently visited Oakhill Correctional Institution. "The staff were also incredibly nice and helpful." "In-person visits made us stronger as a whole, as a family," said Lucia S., who visited a loved one at Kettle Moraine Correctional Facility. "We were able to do a lot of reassuring. The warmth of just being in their presence was great."
For more information on DOC's updated precautions, rules and guidelines for in-person visits, please visit DOC's public website page titled Resuming In-Person Visitation. The agency is also pleased to announce that the COVID-19 vaccine is now being offered free of charge to vaccine-eligible people coming for an in-person visit at six DOC facilities: Fox Lake Correctional, Green Bay Correctional, Kettle Moraine Correctional, Racine Youthful Offender Correctional, Stanley Correctional, and Taycheedah Correctional. Those who sign up for an in-person visit at the mentioned facilities will be asked if they want a vaccine while there. The vaccine will be administered by DOC Health Services staff. DOC will also continue to offer video visits as a supplement to face-to-face visitation, allowing PIOC's one video visit a week free of charge. Each person in DOC care will also continue to receive two free phones calls weekly and a free pre-embossed envelope every two weeks.
| | | | | 7/26/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) continues to make steps towards positive change at Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School (LHS/CLS).
The court-appointed Monitor tasked with tracking progress at the schools filed her latest report today. It noted DOC has gained “substantial compliance" with an additional two elements of the consent decree stemming from a 2017 lawsuit against the previous administration over conditions at the schools. This also marks the 7th straight report from the Monitor in which the DOC has been in partial or substantial compliance with all elements listed in the consent decree. However, in this latest report, the Monitor notes that staff wellness, if it does not improve, will continue to challenge progress at LHS/CLS. The report notes the overall atmosphere at the facilities during the Monitor's site visit was good and that a large majority of staff were in good spirits during her visit. Some staff, though, expressed anxiety, which the Monitor believes impacts their wellness and negatively impacts the overall environment. “Staff wellness is something that has to be a continued focus for us at Lincoln Hill and Copper Lake," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr, adding that the agency is in the process of hiring a position that will be working on approaches related to wellness. “We've asked our staff to make major changes in the way we run our juvenile facilities, and change can be difficult. But we are committed to those changes and to helping staff navigate them." The report states some staff feel frustrated and shared concern about having fewer “punitive tools" to manage youth behavior. This has been a common theme in the Monitor's reports since the DOC eliminated the use of pepper spray and administrative confinement, and the report emphasizes that staff perception of a lack of ways to hold youth accountable “seems to be due to restrictions on engaging in past practices such as confinement." Dozens of youth were interviewed for the report and expressed a variety of concerns, including lack of structured activity and excessive use of force from staff. The Monitor also states concern about “inadequate accountability for staff who have engaged in improper behavior (such as excessive force or verbal abuse) towards youth." However, the report also notes use of physical and mechanical restraint were down compared to six months prior and appeared to be trending in the right direction, and the DOC believes it is holding staff appropriately accountable through the discipline schedule for state workers. “We have no tolerance for abuse of those in our care, youth or adult, and take accusations of abuse seriously," said Sec. Carr. The report credits the DOC for creating an outdoor visitation space for the resumption of in-person visits from families earlier this month, making safety improvements in youth cottages, and using the Care Team concept as a way to reduce the need for restraints in dealing with youth. Moving forward, the Monitor recommends the DOC continue its work to increase staff morale, but also recommends staff take ownership of creating a safe environment by building a better rapport with the youth, creating meaningful activities for youth, providing consistent and air treatment, and utilizing the skills they are learning through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which the DOC is transitioning to as the primary behavior therapy in its juvenile facilities. “Improving the behavior management system, improving the rewards and incentives, and developing engaging programming will have a positive impact on the overall behavior and atmosphere issues that are driving the main issues that are frustrating both staff and youth. Implementation of the new behavior management system is one of the most critical next steps for the agency and facilities," the Monitor wrote in the report, adding that fully integrating DBT into programming at LHS/CLS will lead to a significant reduction in actual and perceived safety concerns. The Monitoring team observed “several very good interactions with youth by staff", but also pointed out that, despite adequate staffing levels during the visit, staff in some living units did not engage with or position themselves near the youth, which she believes would create more positive staff-youth relationships and promote a safer environment for all. The report notes a significant increase in the average amount of time youth spend on education, but adds that youth still have too much idle time, particularly on weekends. To illustrate those concerns, the Monitor noted 42% of incidents involving youth at LHS/CLS happen on either Saturday or Sunday, and suggested a plan to expand the successful music, art, welding and gardening to the weekends. The report also stressed the importance of closing LHS/CLS and moving youth closer to locations where gender and culturally competent programming and services are available. | | | | | 7/27/2021 | | (WAUPUN, Wis.) — Twenty people receive their diploma Tuesday morning at Waupun Correctional Institution and become the first class of individuals in a Wisconsin DOC-sponsored program to graduate with a bachelor's degree. All earned a liberal arts degree in Biblical Studies from Trinity International University (TIU), with a minor in Psychology. The program is fully funded by a private foundation and delivered at no cost to those enrolled or Wisconsin taxpayers. TIU established a branch campus at Waupun Correctional Institution, developed the curriculum and hired staff to run the program. “What an amazing day for each of you," DOC Sec. Kevin Carr said when addressing the graduates. “We can sit here and talk about all the people, partnerships and resources it took to make this happen, but really at the end of the day, it came down to each of you setting a goal, making a commitment, and then working hard every day over the last four years to complete this program." There are roughly 75 persons in DOC care currently enrolled in the program, including the 20 graduates. Each was held to the same admissions standards TIU applies to all students, including having at least a high school equivalency diploma. “Even though we have reached the point of graduation, we know graduating is not the end result," said graduate speaker August White. “We will be at the beginning of being more exemplary, resilient, kinder, creative and empathetic, and practicing and building upon the beneficial things we have learned." Enrollment was offered to persons in DOC care across the state, and the applicant pool narrowed down based on behavior and education. Fifteen of the 20 graduates of this first class are classified as minimum or medium security, and understood they would have to transfer to or remain at WCI, a maximum-security institution, to take part in the program. “I think it is important to consider 'why' these graduates chose to pursue a degree," said TIU President Nicholas Perrin. “Some will be in a prison for the rest of their lives. For them, this degree is not about setting themselves up for success upon return to their community, but about making a difference inside the walls of Wisconsin's institutions and serving fellow prisoners." The Biblical Studies degree through TIU is just one of many educational opportunities offered to persons in the care of the WIDOC, including: Adult basic education services High school equivalency Career technical education/vocational programs Associated degrees through Second Chance Pell-funded programs UW's Odyssey Behind Bars program
| | | | | 7/29/2021 | | (UNION GROVE, Wis.) — Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Amy Pechacek and Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes joined Department of Corrections (DOC) Secretary Kevin Carr to celebrate the opening of a new Job Center at Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center (REECC) and to call attention to the importance of justice-involved initiatives in Wisconsin. This opening marks the fifth collaboration between DWD and DOC.
"Many people in DOC care, unfortunately, will face the same challenges that resulted in their incarceration when they return to their communities upon release," DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said. "Combining state agency efforts to provide robust justice-involved programming is an important way to break the cycle of recidivism and offer second chances for success." REECC is a minimum-security facility entrusted with the custody and supervision of adult females. The new Job Center provides career readiness programs, job search assistance, resume development, services for veterans, apprenticeship opportunities, and educational and vocational training opportunities in many in-demand careers. It also offers assistance for people with disabilities. Those who use the Job Center can create a Job Center of Wisconsin (JCW) account, which allows them to look for jobs, apply, and set up interviews with employers while still in DOC care. "This project is another example of state agencies coming together and connecting the dots," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr said. "Through our collaboration, the more than 400 persons in our care at REECC now have access to a host of programs and services, as well as the opportunity to connect directly with employers prior to release, and, in some cases, have job offers waiting for them when they return to their communities." All three Wisconsin Women’s Correctional System facilities now have a Job Center. By the end of 2021, DOC expects to have Job Centers helping people at 11 of its institutions across the state. The collaboration between DWD and DOC highlight innovative workforce solutions. "Projects like this are exactly the kind of things that help people get off the sidelines and into the workforce," WEDC Secretary & CEO Missy Hughes said. "The $100 million Workforce Innovation Grant Program announced by Gov. Evers last week encourages regions and communities to develop similarly creative, long-term solutions to workforce challenges that our state faces in the wake of COVID-19."
| | | | | 8/23/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections' (DOC) new recidivism report represents a change in the way the current administration measures recidivism now and into the future. Like the agency's previous reporting on recidivism, the Recidivism after Release from Prison report measures reconviction rates at one year, two years and three years after release from a DOC institution. However, in this new report, the agency also measures re-arrest and reincarceration rates over the same timelines. “It's a first for us," said DOC Research and Policy Director Megan Jones. “Driven by our strategic priority of Transparency and Public Accountability, we continue to look for ways to provide relevant agency information to our stakeholders and the public. This change to three measurements should allow us to provide a clearer and more comprehensive picture of recidivism in the state for years to come." Wisconsin DOC's last report on recidivism was published in 2016. Jones' Research and Policy unit is currently working on interactive data dashboards for Wisconsin DOC's public website that would contain the same three measures and be updated annually, showing trends in re-arrest, reconviction and reincarceration rates, and allowing users to drill down into the data using a number of different filters. Data in the new Recidivism After Release from Prison report includes individuals released from prison between 2000 and 2018. Wisconsin DOC uses recidivism rates and other data to examine the impact of evidence-based decision making, with the goal of identifying and implementing policies that work and result in the best possible outcomes for those in our care, our staff and Wisconsin taxpayers.
| | The recidivism report below provides recidivism rate trends and recidivism rates by gender, age at release, race, length of prison stay and original offense type for all three measures of recidivism. | | | 8/26/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Department of Corrections (DOC) values the diversity of its more than 9,000 employees, recognizing them as the agency's most valuable resource. That's one reason DOC partners with Community Work Services, Inc. to hire supported workers at Central Office.
Community Works Services supports individuals with a wide range of developmental disabilities by providing them with individualized assessment, job development, on-the-job training, and job retention services. Their goals include finding a "good fit" for both the individual and employer. The DOC has hired many supported workers over the years to perform a wide variety of tasks for the agency; there are currently 16 supported workers employed by DOC. The DOC receives a number of benefits by hiring supported workers. First and foremost, supported workers complete a vast quantity as well as a variety of work. That work is then quality-checked by Community Works Services staff to ensure it's done correctly and in a timely manner. In addition, the jobs done by supported workers aim to free up the workload of different staff within the agency, allowing them to focus on other tasks. The supported workers also see benefits, including a paycheck, a feeling of accomplishment and pride in the work they do, the chance to learn new work and social skills, and the development of camaraderie with their coworkers. Agencies such as Community Work Services, Inc. were initially started due to a lack of vocational services for individuals with disabilities after exiting high school. This partnership is truly making a difference in the lives of not only supported workers, but their families, guardians and Community Works Services staff. One of the supported workers who has benefited from this partnership is Jack, who has been employed with the DOC for the last 31 years and is well-known by his peers at Central Office. For those of you who don't know Jack, one of his main tasks is to deliver the mail at DOC's Central Office. When Jack started with DOC in 1990, a mail delivery position hadn't yet been established. He took it upon himself to start a delivery service, something staff found incredibly helpful, as they no longer needed to take time out of their day to visit the mailroom. Jack starts his mail route in the Corrections Training Center (CTC), and works his way to the Bureau of Technology Management (BTM), Legal, the Secretary's Office, then down to the first floor, finishing his deliveries at the Division of Adult Institutions (DAI). Staff often look forward to seeing and visiting with Jack on his mail route. Jack also does a number of other tasks, such as shredding, filing, and occasionally moving boxes. Jack truly appreciates the assistance he receives from his coaches, though for the most part, he's an independent employee. He'll occasionally ask his coaches from Community Works Services a question about a task, and they're always there to offer guidance and extra jobs that may need to be done. Jack's mail delivery service has been truly appreciated over the years, and rightfully so. He has made a number of important deliveries while in his position, and he even mentioned that he used to deliver mail to the agency's legal team right away in the morning, ensuring all time-sensitive documents were promptly received by the correct individuals. One of the most important things Jack has learned over the last 31 years working for the DOC is the power of connections. He has also honed in on his writing skills, writing letters and sending postcards to his work friends, resulting in many great connections and friendships. It's safe to say that one of Jack's favorite things about coming to work is seeing his friends. Outside of work, Jack enjoys riding his bike, occasionally stopping at the UW Arboretum or Picnic Point. He also enjoys traveling, relying on his income to save up for trips. Jack has a great love of music and has collected many CDs, tapes and vinyl records over the years. He has no problem staying busy, as he has worked several other jobs while also maintaining his DOC position. The DOC would like to thank all supported workers for their hard work and dedication. DOC truly appreciates the value these workers bring to the Department, and we look forward to continuing this partnership moving forward. | | Jack is a supported worker who has been employed with the DOC for 31 years and is a familiar face at Central Office. | | | 9/2/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Foster Grandparents Program at Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School (LHS/CLS) was recently honored with a Governor's Service Award, earning the award for AmeriCorps Seniors Program of the Year at a ceremony in Madison last month. Several of the Grandparents were there to receive the award in-person, and a video of the award presentation posted by Serve Wisconsin can be found here on YouTube. The group earned the award by making a difference in the lives of youth within a challenging environment. They have had an invaluable impact on the young people at LHS/CLS, offering them educational assistance while also serving as caring mentors that demonstrate a willingness to invest their time and heartfelt attention to connect with youth. “The benefits … are tutoring and mentoring," one of the Foster Grandparents said via email. “(the youth) are less like to act out if they have a Foster Grandparent there to help and support their learning. Foster Grandparents also help the youth with social and emotional skills while mentoring the youth, using pro-social engagement in positive activities." The Foster Grandparent Program at LHS/CLS is one of the longest operating AmeriCorps Seniors Programs in the state, starting at Copper Lake School in 1973. While most Foster Grandparent Programs in the state operate at typical K-12 schools, this one is inside a Type 1 correctional facility for youth. The Foster Grandparents volunteer in the LHS/CLS living units, school classrooms, and/or their reading buddy program. Wherever they volunteer, the goal is to bring a spirit of love and care to the young people within these facilities. Outside of tutoring, they engage the youth in activities like playing cards and other games, baking treats together, crafting, outdoor planting, or simply talking and offering a willing ear. The Foster Grandparents have an amazing ability to communicate with the youth and form connections in ways facility staff often cannot. The youth know they are volunteers who do not have to be there, but still commit to coming there and offering to help. The Foster Grandparents shared a variety of reasons for wanting to volunteer: - “I just wanted to give back to the community and I saw there was an opening there and I enjoy working with kids."
- “It gives me a reason to get up in the morning."
- “I like helping kids and motivating them to learn!"
After being away from the facility and trying virtual services for a time during the pandemic, the Foster Grandparents were able to return in-person once COVID-19 vaccines were available. Since roughly 95% of the youth were new to the facility since the beginning of the pandemic and had not met the Foster Grandparents, it took a little time to build a rapport with the kids. Staff say, by the end of the second week, the youth began to open up to the volunteers. “We have a climbing course here and last week several of the grandparents watched as the youth climbed the rock wall or as they zipped down the zip line. Grandparents cheered as each youth reached the top," said Cynthia Leskey, a Senior Recreation Leader at LHS/CLS who works with the Foster Grandparents. “Our grandparents really look for the little successes in life and give our youth the encouragement they need to succeed here."
| | | | | 9/7/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) recently made several upgrades and updates to its Corrections Training Center at the agency's Central Office in Madison. From new flooring and paint, to the customized, one-of-a-kind artwork, the space feels modern and inviting, sending a message to staff that DOC is invested in their learning. Training Director Shannon Butcher said there were two primary goals tied to the renovations: to increase accessibility to DOC staff statewide, and to invest in agency employees by encouraging ongoing trainings beyond what you may receive as a new employee. “Walking into the training center sets the tone for how staff see the agency," said Butcher. “I feel privileged we had the resources to do this." The classrooms have all been renamed after NASA missions: Curiosity, Pioneer, Explorer, Insight, Pathfinder, Opportunity, Perseverance and Discovery. “Space is the furthest place we can take our brains," said Butcher. “Whether it is a nuanced connection or symbolic, the hope is staff can stretch their thinking as far as they can." Most of the renovations were agreed upon as tenant improvements when DOC renewed its lease in 2019. Renovations began in May 2021 and most major cosmetic changes have been completed, but there are still a few more exciting changes coming. This fall, there will be a new reception area, helping to make the space feel more welcoming to visitors. The remodeled reception area will feature open sight lines, complete with digital and interactive signage and monitors hanging from the ceiling and walls. This will help showcase what is happening on-site and better direct staff coming in. The training center will also be increasing accessibility through a full technology upgrade. All classrooms will be equipped to allow trainings to happen virtually, in-person or offer a hybrid option. “Offering these options ensures there is no disparity in experiences for our staff statewide," Butcher said. Offering in-person, virtual and hybrid options removes many of the barriers associated with staff being unable to attend trainings that may be hours away, for example. Instead, they will be able to choose what learning style works best for their particular situation. With the increased accessibility, the hope is staff will take advantage of the continued learning opportunities DOC provides to them, and supervisors will encourage and support them along the way. Butcher stated that, historically, trainings have always felt like “this thing that we have to do." Instead, she hopes to show staff that trainings are designed with them in mind, and that as an agency, DOC supports continuing education and professional development. All updates are expected to be completed by the end of this calendar year. To learn more about DOC's commitment to staff development, please visit our Workforce Investments page.
| | Renovations began in May 2021 and most major cosmetic changes have been completed, but there are still a few more exciting changes coming. | | | 9/9/2021 | | (FOND DU LAC, Wis.) — Taycheedah Correctional Institution (TCI) has again earned accreditation from the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) by demonstrating compliance with NCCHC's Standards for Health Services in Prisons. “Accreditation recognizes our continued dedication to compliance with the most respected standards in correctional health care," said Sarah Cooper, Administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections'(DOC) Division of Adult Institutions. “I want to thank the health services/institution leadership teams and staff, as well as our DOC Bureau of Health Services for their work to uphold these standards." TCI is a maximum/medium-security institution in the Wisconsin Women's Correctional System that currently houses about 750 persons in DOC care. The institution underwent a virtual survey October 29-30, 2020, and it was found to be in full compliance with all essential and important standards applicable to the facility. An experienced physician and other experts surveyed the facility for compliance with standards on continuous quality improvement, safety, infection control, personnel and training, medical and mental health care, health records and legal issues. "It's our obligation to provide those in our care with the best health care possible," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “I salute the health care staff, supervisors and officers at TCI for their commitment to providing quality health care in a secure environment." NCCHC is dedicated to improving the quality of correctional health services and helping correctional facilities provide effective and efficient care. It has surveyed and accredited prisons, jails and other confinement facilities for 40 years, and uses accreditation standards that are developed with input from national experts in correctional health care. "In achieving NCCHC accreditation, TCI has demonstrated its commitment to meeting constitutional requirements for health care for incarcerated individuals," said National Commission CEO Deborah Ross, CCHP. “Accreditation is a voluntary process and we commend Wisconsin DOC for successfully undertaking this challenge to provide quality health care and instill confidence in the community it serves." TCI was first accredited in 2014, with NCCHC surveying three years of data, and has maintained its commitment to meet NCCHC's standards for 10 years. It is anticipated the next scheduled NCCHC survey of TCI will occur sometime before October 1, 2023. | | Photo by National Commission on Correctional Health Care | | | 9/9/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Change is an inevitable aspect of our everyday lives, but those who have experienced any type of organizational change at their workplace know it can be a frustrating, slow and sometimes confusing process. But change is also necessary. Simply challenging the status quo and asking “why" we do things the way we do, can lead to new, creative, innovative ideas and changes that strengthen the way we operate. The Corrections industry has been evolving for years. Instead of focusing on punitive actions, states have recognized the value and success of having a system built around rehabilitation. In Wisconsin institutions, additional programming is helping persons in our care successfully reenter the community upon the completion of their sentence. Revocation and supervision rules are changing so as not to disrupt the lives of those under supervision when it's not necessary and safe to do so. Telehealth has been recognized as a practical option, especially where there is a scarcity of resources, giving us a greater reach to those in need. Opportunities for education within our institutions are also growing, with institution-based job centers and mobile training labs helping those in our care secure jobs before they've even been released. All of these changes center on a shift in mindset regarding justice-involved individuals. It's no surprise then to see corrections professionals and agencies in Wisconsin and beyond have begun using person-first language. This follows the lead of DOC Secretary Kevin Carr, who has been committed to using person-first language since being appointed to the position in 2019, hoping DOC staff and other corrections professionals would understand the importance and embrace the change. Person-first language describes putting a person before a label in an effort to show respect and avoid dehumanization. For DOC, this means using the label Persons in our Care (PIOC) in place of inmates, clients in place of offenders, and youth in place of juveniles. This simple act may seem insignificant, but it fosters communication rooted in respect and hope, and helps to eliminate stereotypes that can inhibit a person's ability to succeed. “I've thought about how person-first language has impacted me over the last decade. It has a lot to do with my confidence at any given moment, and can be expressed in actions as much as in language," said Jesse Ruegsegger, who is currently a client on DOC community supervision. “While I was locked up, many inmates told me I wouldn't be able to succeed on supervision. A lot of their stories scared me that the system was built to see my failure. I believe that system is neutral. However, the agents dictate positive or negative experiences. I have an agent that supports my good decisions and encourages me to do positive things. The lack of negativity and labels makes me comfortable discussing things with her when my life doesn't go as planned. I've had a lot of titles come and go from my life: I've earned them all at some point in my life, yet, some of these titles no longer dictate who I am or what I do." The use of first-person language goes hand-in-hand with hope. Researchers and scientists define hope as "a positive motivational state that is based on an interactively-derived sense of successful (a) agency (goal-directed energy) and (b) pathways (planning to meet goals)." According to Dr. Scott Barry Kaufmann, cognitive scientist and humanistic psychologist (Ph.D), "Hope is not just a feel-good emotion, but a dynamic cognitive motivational system. Under this conceptualization of hope, emotions follow cognitions, not the other way around. Hope-related cognitions are important. Hope leads to learning goals, which are conducive to growth and improvement." Simply put, person-first language can both motivate and inspire hope, which can ultimately drive success. “As an agent, I always made a point to call people by their preferred name during interactions. I found that it was important in order to gain trust, build rapport, and to have real and sometimes very difficult conversations," noted Region One Assistant Chief Sarah Krahn. “All people want to feel like they are respected and using person-first language is one simple way to do this. As a Corrections Field Supervisor, and now Assistant Chief, I often speak with friends, family, or victims who are concerned or have questions about someone on supervision. I've learned that using a client's name during these discussions is equally as important and can sometimes even deescalate a situation. It is important to acknowledge that some of the people that we supervise in the community have engaged in some very harmful behavior and created victims in the community. I don't believe that using person-first language diminishes the harm or impact that has been caused, and instead may even empower the client to have more respect for themselves and in turn make better decisions in the future. I believe that person-first language can assist in our efforts to reduce risk in the community while simply respecting people that we interact with daily." Additional peer-reviewed research has shown that the use of person-first language does have a positive impact on those in our care. Dr. Alexandra Cox, Senior Lecturer at the University of Essex (UK) states, “An argument for the use of person-centered language is that is a generally destigmatizing approach to people who face innumerable consequences -- politically, socially and psychologically -- as a result of being affixed with a label that identifies them as "criminal". Research also explains the power of using person-first language. According to Professor Nguyen Toan Tran, at the University of Technology Sydney, "Language used to describe individuals and populations, either respectful or stigmatizing, matters and shapes people's views and understanding of past and present events, as well as future possibilities." Erin George, and Ravi Mangla at Citizen Action of New York, explain it this way: “Words like felon, convict, criminal, prisoner, offender, and perpetrator create a paradigm where the person is removed from the equation and individuals are defined by a single experience. These labels ignore the social, economic, and political drivers of mass incarceration and deprive people of their complex identities. They make reentry into society increasingly difficult due to stigmas and prejudices associated with these labels." In talking with staff from around the agency, it's evident that person-first language has not only been identified as a source of hope in research, but it's a source of hope for DOC staff, PIOC, clients and youth. “Using terms like “youth" or “youth in secure treatment" humanizes their experience when with us," said Lincoln Hills School (LHS) Treatment Specialist Dylan Wilson. “It invests in them as soon-to-be adults and doesn't treat them like numbers. By using person-first language, it supports the building of rapport and establishes professional relationships. It also demonstrates respect, which youth are then more apt to show back." “For really my entire career working in DAI, DCC, and DJC with both male and female persons in our care, I've addressed them as Mr. or Ms. for adults, and youth/kids for juveniles," said Dodge Correctional Institution (DCI) Warden Jason Benzel. “Whether we utilize those titles or PIOC, the whole purpose to me is to show those we work with that they matter and are respected." “I believe the use of person-first language, such as referring to offenders as clients, is important as it inexplicitly shapes how we view our clients," said Probation and Parole Agent Mai Lor. “The term “offender" tends to have a negative connotation, focusing on primarily the wrongful or illegal behaviors. I personally believe that when we refer to them as an offender, we may retain the stigmas and negative thoughts associated with the word instead of focusing on who our clients are beyond their involvement with the justice system. As a change agent, our position allows us to work collaboratively with our clients to support re-integration and rehabilitation towards pro-social behaviors to reduce recidivism. Therefore, it is essential to also view our clients as adaptable to change, which starts with how we refer to them." Corrections is not the only industry moving towards the use of person-first language. This simple language change has also impacted how we speak about disabilities in our society and really began when the Americans with Disabilities Act used person-first language to emphasize the importance. The use of person-first language is now widely accepted as the “default" language choice when referring to individuals with any disability. By contrast, using person-first language in corrections is still a newer endeavor. However, Wisconsin DOC is already seeing considerable and positive steps towards this change throughout the agency, as agency leadership continues to encourage staff to find new ways to treat people with respect and dignity. Jesse Ruegsegger, a client currently on community supervision.
| | | | | 9/27/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Wisconsin's Bureau of Correctional Enterprises (BCE) has operations in four distinct areas: agriculture, industries, logistics and transition. While teams of civilian staff and incarcerated workers in the first three areas make, sell, deliver and install a wide variety of products and services to our customers, the fourth area (transition) provides BCE's primary product… opportunity! BCE's Transition Team partners with employers throughout Wisconsin to provide successful re-entry opportunities for BCE's incarcerated workers. This partnership also helps those employers build a more skilled and talented workforce. BCE builds relationships with employers through its employer outreach campaign. Through this campaign, BCE helps employers better understand that when BCE's incarcerated workers win… Wisconsin also wins. The success of this campaign may start with presentations and other methods of outreach, but relies on periodic follow-up with employers, as well as quick and accurate responses to their inquiries. The BCE Transition Team works closely with employers and staffing agencies to help them meet recruitment needs and fill openings. Here are a few examples: Machine operators, forklift drivers and maintenance technicians were placed with a large wood fabrication operation A cheese/dairy product manufacturer needed to fill dairy production associates and packaging positions in a number of plants across Southeast Wisconsin A zinc plating company was looking for production hangers/rackers and forklift operators
Candidates for these types of positions are contacted via email, telephone or mail with the employer's position information and detailed instructions on how to apply. A number of formerly incarcerated BCE workers have been successful in gaining employment with employers with whom our program has built a relationship with. These success stories are shared with current incarcerated workers to help alleviate the uncertainty and concern many have regarding finding gainful employment when released from DOC custody. Seeing formerly incarcerated individuals obtain and keep a great job gives those preparing for release more confidence in their own ability to get a job when they are released. The BCE Transition team conducts presentations to BCE's incarcerated workers to discuss the current job market, as well as ways to maximize one's skills and abilities upon release. Additionally, the team distributes educational materials, discusses the BCE Transition Team benefits, and provides resume writing resources. By conducting these presentations and educating BCE's incarcerated workers on opportunities and the program's resources available to them upon release, enrollment in the BCE Transition Team program has grown exponentially. The BCE Transition Team also provides a wide range of informational materials to incarcerated workers on topics such as: Another critical resource for incarcerated individuals relates to societal changes that may have occurred during incarceration. Smart phones, social media, changes in traffic laws, and the latest consumer scams are new to those serving long sentences. And by introducing these developments to incarcerated individuals as they are preparing for release, the pro-gram helps to alleviate the stress of returning to the community and the feeling of being a “fish out of water." Additionally, addressing common concerns of workers like navigating the banking system or the need for insurance has also been welcomed. In 2020, data analysis completed by the Wisconsin DOC shows that three years after going home to their families and communities 71% of BCE's formerly incarcerated workers have not been re-incarcerated. The same analysis shows that 88% of BCE incarcerated workers have gained employment in their communities after release. It is encouraging to see the success that incarcerated workers achieved through all the work they have done and all they have learned as part of the overall BCE team. The BCE Transition team works diligently to ensure all incarcerated workers at BCE have job leads available at the time of release. These leads are also provided based on the incarcerated workers' skills and experience while employed with BCE and with other employers, helping the formerly incarcerated individual more easily obtain and keep a job. This article was originally published by the National Correctional Industries Association (NCIA) in the Fall 2021 Edition of NCIA News here. | by Jessica Wagner, Safety/Service & Transition Manager, Wisconsin Bureau of Correctional Enterprises | | | | 10/8/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) -- The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) honored some of its outstanding staff recently at the Secretary's SALUTE Awards at the Assembly Chambers of the Wisconsin State Capitol Building. The COVID-19 pandemic cancelled last year's intra-agency awards presentation, so Wisconsin DOC honored SALUTE Award winners for 2020 and 2021 at the event. The awards honor individual DOC staff members or groups nominated by their peers or supervisors. There are winners in six categories, one for each letter in SALUTE: Service, Awareness, Leadership, Unique, Team and Excellence. The SALUTE Award winners are: 2020 Service – Sheryll Anderson - Special Management Unit Social Worker, Columbia Correctional Institution Awareness – Augustus “Gus" Durdin – Correctional Sergeant, Dodge Correctional Institution Leadership – Jaime Adams – Health Services Manager, Wisconsin Secure Program Facility Unique – Maintenance Team, Redgranite Correctional Institution Team – Program Department Team, Wisconsin Secure Program Facility Excellence – Michele Burgener – Program Support Supervisor, Division of Community Corrections (DCC) Region 6
2021 Service – DOC Emergency Operations Center Team Awareness – David Bowen – Correctional Sergeant, Prairie du Chien Correctional Institution Leadership – Katrina Kleven – Program and Policy Analyst-Advanced, Prison Rape Elimination Act Office Unique – Computer Numerical Controls Team, Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center Team – Overdose Death Review Team Excellence – Gretchen Burg – Probation and Parole Agent-Senior, DCC Region 7
At each year's SALUTE Awards, Wisconsin DOC also takes the opportunity to honor staff nominated for life-saving and valor awards, based on actions taken either inside or outside the workplace. DOC staff honored with Life-Saving Awards: Adam Groark – Supervising Officer 2, Wisconsin Women's Correctional System Tristan Payton – Correctional Officer, Stanley Correctional Institution Robert Garduno – Correctional Officer, Stanley Correctional Institution John Severson - Correctional Officer, Stanley Correctional Institution Jason Kulow – Correctional Officer, Stanley Correctional Institution Thomas Taylor – Supervising Officer 2, Wisconsin Secure Program Facility Joshua Funk – Correctional Officer, Taycheedah Correctional Institution Jeb Searls – Corrections Field Supervisor, DCC Region 1 Kari Spaeth – Probation and Parole Agent, DCC Region 1 Nicholas Johnson – Captain, Wisconsin Resource Center Angela Thompson – Health Services Manager, Redgranite Correctional Institution Jasmine Wilburn – Probation and Parole Agent, DCC Region 1
DOC staff honored with Valor Awards: Luke Myszka - Supervising Youth Counselor, Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School Earl “Dru" Heier - Deputy Superintendent, Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School Jesse Severt - Supervising Youth Counselor, Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School Ryan Adams - Youth Counselor, Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School Andrew Lyga – Captain, Fox Lake Correctional Institution Joe Layton – Correctional Officer, Waupun Correctional Institution Shawn Gallinger - Correctional Officer, Wisconsin Secure Program Facility Keith Wiegel – Correctional Officer, Wisconsin Secure Program Facility Ryan Disterhaft – Social Worker, Waupun Correctional Institution
| | | | | 10/14/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Secretary Kevin Carr and Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld joined leaders from Royal Credit Union today, to observe financial literacy instruction the credit union is providing to men at Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility (CVCTF).
The credit union has been offering lessons in budgeting and financial management at CVCTF for two years. Royal Credit Union Board Chair Tom Huffcutt and the credit union's President and CEO Brandon Riechers joined the Secretaries to drop in on a lesson Wednesday morning, before speaking with some students who have either completed or are currently taking the course. “Royal's correctional facility financial education program is designed to help individuals achieve financial well-being, and supports our core purpose which is to create a positive impact in the lives we touch," said Riechers. “We are proud to have provided financial education to more than 1000 people in the care of area correctional facilities and hope our program provides them with the tools they need to accomplish their financial goals." “Financial literacy programs, such as this one developed by Royal Credit Union, focus on knowledge acquisition and skill development with the goal of helping people in DOC's care understand best practices in money management, like how to save money, build credit, and budget," said DFI Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “By providing financial literacy education, we can help these individuals learn a way to secure a better future for themselves and their families. Financial literacy has a way of paying itself forward across communities and generations." Every year, about 9,000 people in DOC care return to their community, and roughly 65% of those at CVCTF have a year or less remaining on their sentence. Providing tools to help people achieve success once they return to their home and community is vital. Darrin Cowser has been at CVCTF since June. He says he took the three-week course to learn better spending habits and improve his understanding of how to build credit. “It's important to have a credit history. If you don't have a credit history no one is going to want to deal with you or try to help you make the big purchases," Cowser said. “I'm trying to figure out, when I go home, how I can build credit history and start, so when I get to those big purchases I could possibly buy a home, get a vehicle." “This is a great example of state agencies and private businesses collaborating to reach a shared goal," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “A better understanding of budgeting and financial management is important to anyone, and I'm glad those in our care here at CVCTF have a chance to receive this knowledge."
Royal Credit Union provides the curriculum and instruction for the program. Since it launched at CVCTF in 2019, Royal Credit Union and the DOC have been able to help 400 people before they returned to their community. There are currently 12 receiving instruction in the program. In addition to the correctional facility financial education program, Royal Credit Union also operates 29 student-run credit union offices in schools, and has created multiple innovative financial education programs for people of all ages. For more information on Royal's financial education programs visit Financial Education Programs For All | Royal Credit Union (rcu.org).
About Royal Credit Union Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 240,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood. Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. Realtors in the state of Wisconsin or Minnesota are also eligible to join the credit union. Visit rcu.org or call Royal Credit Union at 800-341-9911 for more information. # # #
| | | | | 10/18/2021 | | (BLACK RIVER FALLS, Wis.) — Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary-designee Amy Pechacek and Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld recently joined Department of Corrections (DOC) Secretary Kevin Carr to celebrate Manufacturing Month and a new job-training program at the Jackson Correctional Institution (JCI). The Secretaries participated in a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) certificate of completion ceremony for the first group of people in DOC's care to train in the institution's new CNC Mobile Lab, and then took a tour of the lab where a second group is currently learning. CNC is a computerized manufacturing process that takes digitized data to control, automate, and monitor movement of a machine to route, weld, grind, laser, stamp, or control a robot to produce machined parts. DOC partnered with Western Technical College, which creates the curriculum and provides an instructor to conduct the training. “As soon as we walk through the doors to the mobile lab, it's like we're not even in prison anymore," stated a student who was part of the first graduating cohort at JCI. “We're focused, talking to each other about our work and learning." “I went to college before my incarceration, and passed some classes and failed some. I never graduated and didn't think college was for me," said another student who received his program completion certificate. “The CNC program got me back into thinking about getting a job, and it gives me an opportunity to go out and have an income to support my family when I release." Jackson Correctional Institution is a medium-security facility entrusted with the custody and supervision of adult males. It has a population of around 950, and 45% of the men there have a year or less remaining in the confinement portion of their sentence. “What an incredible collaboration between DOC, DWD and Western Technical College," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr said. "Wisconsin employers are looking for skilled workers and, through this partnership, we're providing people in our care at Jackson Correctional Institution knowledge and tools that can help them successfully transition back into their communities. It's great to see the men here are taking advantage of that opportunity." “Education remains a powerful tool that uplifts individuals into high-demand and high-paying jobs," said Kat Linaker, Vice President of Academics at Western Technical College. “This partnership is providing first-class advanced manufacturing education to individuals at Jackson Correctional Institution, providing them an opportunity to contribute to their communities upon release. With our continued labor shortage in the region, this is an investment in the future." The CNC Mobile Lab is a self-contained training lab designed to deliver an advanced manufacturing training curriculum. As a climate-controlled unit, it is equipped with wireless technology and provides a space where instructors can teach and train advanced manufacturing skills. Persons in DOC's care will train and receive a CNC Operator Certificate and CNC Set up Certificate, earning a total of 13 credits, from Western Technical College. “Certificate programs, such as this one from Western Technical College, help individuals returning from DOC's care obtain employment, gain access to housing and medical care, and start building financial capability," said DFI Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “Being able to support themselves upon release with steady employment in a high-demand and well-paying field is an essential step on the path to achieving financial security for themselves and their families." A new correctional job lab will also be opening at Jackson Correctional Institution later this fall and will provide the persons in DOC's care with the ability to search for jobs throughout Wisconsin in advanced manufacturing, before they return to their homes and community. "Many individuals leaving DOC care face a lot of barriers to seeking full time employment," DWD Secretary-designee Amy Pechacek said. "And we know that one of the best ways to positively change someone's life is to have a stable, well-paying job that supports them in their transition back to the community." The ultimate goal of DOC's Reentry Unit is crime reduction, fewer victims, reduced state and local criminal justice costs, and most importantly, safer families and communities. More than 95% of Persons in our Care (PIOC) will return to their communities. The public is best served if those in our care are not only held accountable for their actions, but also have the opportunity to become law abiding and successful members of society. Reentry promotes success for PIOCs from admission through discharge through the application of evidence-based practices. The Department's Reentry philosophy is governed by the Reentry Business Plan and calls for the engagement of persons in our care as early as possible through risk assessment and case planning in the COMPAS system, treatment and motivation for change.
| | | | | 10/26/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) – The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) released its first stakeholder newsletter this month as part of its ongoing commitment to the agency's Transparency and Public Accountability strategic priority. The newsletter showcases the work happening across the agency, focusing on the agency's goals and highlighting accomplishments from the previous six months. While this publication may be the first, DOC plans to provide both a Spring and Fall edition each following year. The COVID-19 pandemic has been front and center in the operation of the agency over the past 20 months. However, DOC Secretary Kevin Carr noted, “This newsletter goes beyond what is happening in our agency related to COVID-19. It's a way of showcasing all the hard work our staff have been doing and will continue to do in the months ahead. We haven't stopped working on important initiatives; we've adapted to the circumstances while still working to accomplish the agency's goals for the future." DOC stakeholders, which include friends and family members of loved ones, local businesses, non-profit organizations, government and elected officials, law enforcement agencies and community members, are encouraged to read the newsletter and provide feedback on improving future publications to docgeneral@wisconsin.gov. “I hope people find this to be a useful tool to understand what's happening throughout our agency" said Secretary Carr. “Strong community relationships are a large factor in our success. This [newsletter] is one small step we are taking to fulfill our mission to serve the people of Wisconsin with transparency and earn their trust."
| | | | | 10/27/2021 | | (FOND DU LAC, Wis.) — Camp Reunite returned to Taycheedah Correctional Institution (TCI) this summer, though the bonding experience that embodies the camp looked a little different this year due to the ongoing pandemic. Young campers were able to attend in person from July 25–30, 2021 to participate in recreational activities and interact with other children of incarcerated parents. However, due to the safety precautions currently in place, they did not get to experience Camp Reunite's typical, extended in-person visits with their moms. Instead, parents found creative ways to strengthen bonds, making welcome baskets that included handwritten letters and crafts for their children. The campers' moms also put together a video with skits and personal messages. Camp Reunite is a week-long, trauma-informed summer camp serving youth ages 8-17 who have a parent currently incarcerated in the Wisconsin Correctional System. It is a partnership between Hometown Heroes, Inc., the Turning Rivers youth camping facility and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC). The program was first introduced in 2018 at TCI, a maximum-security facility for women. TCI later added a winter Camp Reunite in 2019, and the program was expanded to Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution, a medium-security facility for men, in 2020. Sarah Cooper, Administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections' Division of Adult Institutions, was TCI Warden when the program began. She recalls it had a profound impact, not just on the children and their moms, but also on the institution's staff. “It was a great reminder for our staff of why we do the work we do every day," Administrator Cooper said. “These are real people with lives outside of prison; mothers with children. It is one thing to hear their stories, but another to see those experiences." Losing a parent to incarceration can be traumatic and a time of stress for a child. Feelings of shame or stigma related to having an incarcerated parent can lead to depression, aggression, poor academic performance, truancy and other negative behaviors. Even after their parent returns home, disrupted family relationships and weakened parent-child bonds can be difficult to repair. Along with traditional recreational summer camp activities, Camp Reunite offers activities that promote mental health while providing hope, healing and resiliency through the strengthening of the connection between children and their incarcerated parent. Additionally, pre-pandemic, children were able to enjoy two meaningful visits to the correctional institution to see their parent. All the campers share a common bond of having an incarcerated parent, and lifelong relationships are built from a place of acceptance and understanding. At the end of each camp session, staff from Turning Rivers youth camping facility and Hometown Heroes, Inc. distribute surveys and assessments for campers, using a “Hope Scale" to measure the level of hope they feel at a point in time. Kenzie Gonzalez from Hometown Heroes, Inc. says what they have learned from that data is that “campers feel increased hope at the end of camp" and that this is supported when they talk with the caregivers of those campers weeks, and even months, later. Those caregivers note seeing lasting resilience in the children after they attend Camp Reunite. Children with an incarcerated parent are often forgotten or left behind, but Camp Reunite addresses the issues of having an incarcerated parent by understanding and addressing the child's feelings of anger, frustration, low self-esteem and motivation. Staff are able to cheer on each child and help them become more confident and successful, and for a short period of time during the visits, parents get to just be parents and connect with their child. Now, with the proven success of these initial camps in Wisconsin, Camp Reunite is looking to partner with correctional systems in other states to have a positive impact on some of the millions of other children impacted by incarceration throughout the country. While the COVID-19 pandemic may have slowed down efforts to expand Camp Reunite's reach, Hometown Heroes, Inc. is working with partners in other states in anticipation of holding additional camps in summer 2022. Gonzalez said, “We are hopeful that these camps will include in-person visits with the campers' mother or father, which is a major highlight of the program." For more information on Camp Reunite, please visit: https://www.campreunite.org. | | | | | 11/3/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) is partnering with a company to start photocopying the personal mail of all adults in its care, a response to the growing problem of dangerous drugs being sent into DOC institutions through personal mail. DOC has seen an increase of drug incidents among persons in its care, including increased use of K2 and other synthetic cannabinoids, which have no odor and can be difficult to detect. Paper and envelopes can be sprayed with or soaked in these drugs. This paper is then sent into DOC institutions via mail, where some persons in DOC care tear it into small strips, and use it or sell it to others. Synthetic cannabinoids can cause violent behavior in some cases. In others, it can cause serious medical distress that may require emergency medical treatment. “Our agency's mission and core values include protecting the safety of our staff and those in our care, and that is what's driving this decision," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “By stopping the original pieces of paper from entering the institutions, we can greatly reduce the amount of drugs coming in and create a safer environment." Despite increased searches on living units, K9 searches, increased urinalysis testing and sharing of information about the dangers of synthetic cannabinoids, DOC still had 182 drug incidents in its facilities in the month of September, with 16 of them resulting in persons in DOC care needing emergency treatment at a medical facility. DOC saw success when it piloted a photocopying process at Fox Lake Correctional Institution (FLCI), which was the first DOC facility to see a large spike in drug incidents earlier this year. FLCI switched to photocopying mail in mid-April, a month in which the institution had nine potential overdoses and two incidents of violent behavior related to drug use. Numbers in both categories fell in the ensuing months before reaching zero in August. Wisconsin DOC cares for about 20,000 people at 36 adult institutions. To photocopy the personal mail for that large a group, DOC is contracting with a mail management service named TextBehind, which already provides mail photocopying services to the corrections agency for the state of North Carolina and around 30 individual counties in multiple states. Personal mail for those in DOC care will be sent to TextBehind, which will do the following within 24 hours of receiving it: open the mail, photocopy the envelope and contents, and send the photocopies to DOC institutions for delivery. TextBehind will make color copies of photos and drawings. “The amount of copying is too much to ask of DOC staff, so we decided to work with a vendor," said DOC Division of Adult Institutions Administrator Sarah Cooper. “Also, hiring a group that specializes in this type of work should minimize any issues with the photocopies." During the pilot, some persons in DOC's care at FLCI complained of photocopies that cut off parts of the original mail. Under this contract, TextBehind will be required to hold the original mail for 30 days after receipt. Any person in DOC care with a concern about their photocopied mail will have 14 days from receipt of the mail to file a complaint. Holding the original for 30 days gives TextBehind the time and opportunity to address any complaints. Wisconsin DOC will begin this new practice on December 6, 2021. Starting on that date, anyone sending personal mail to persons in DOC care will have to mail it to TextBehind, making sure the address on the envelope includes the information below: PIOC full name (first and last) and DOC # Correctional Facility name (do not abbreviate)
TextBehind's customer support center will be available to family and friends with questions about mail delivery. There will be no added cost to persons in DOC care or those exchanging mail with them. Legal, medical and other protected mail are excluded. For faster delivery and convenience, family and friends will also have the option to electronically send letters, greeting cards and drawings to their loved ones in DOC care. | | | | | 11/11/2021 | | (NEILLSVILLE, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) hosted its annual Veterans Recognition Ceremony at The Highground Veterans Memorial Park in Neillsville Wednesday morning. A large group of DOC staff and their families came for the agency's first ceremony since 2019, after concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled last year's gathering. “I want to thank each of you for being here today. I am thrilled to be with you all in person," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr told the crowd attending the event. “In the Department of Corrections, we very much understand the value and bravery of our armed forces. I am proud of the fact that our agency employs more military veterans than any other agency in the state." Wisconsin DOC employs nearly 1,000 military veterans. The ceremony's other featured speaker, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) Secretary Mary Kolar, paid tribute to all veterans, including DOC staff who came from offices across the state to be at the ceremony. “I appreciate your commitment as veterans working for the Department of Corrections, all the while keeping the great state of Wisconsin secure for our friends and loved ones," Sec. Kolar told the crowd, encouraging them to contact DVA at 1-800-WIS-VETS or www.WisVets.com to learn about all the benefits available to veterans in Wisconsin. The ceremony included presentation of colors by the New Lisbon Correctional Institution Honor Guard, and the ceremonial reading of the names of some killed in action in Operation Desert Storm/Shield, Iraq and Afghanistan. The Highground Veterans Memorial Park is a 155-acre park designed to “honor, educate and heal" military veterans, their families and all others who visit the site. Located three miles west of Niellsville in Central Wisconsin, it has become the nation's leading and largest manned veterans park. | | | | | 11/16/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The court-appointed Monitor's 11th report for Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School was filed with the court today, and noted multiple improvements at the juvenile facility and in DOC's efforts to meet the requirements of a court order. The report highlights Wisconsin DOC's continued steps to achieve compliance with elements of a consent decree, stemming from a 2017 lawsuit and investigation into substandard conditions at the facility under the previous administration. In the first report from the Monitor, filed shortly after the Evers Administration took office, DOC was in substantial compliance with just one of roughly 50 benchmarks measured by the Monitor. Less than three years later, this latest report shows DOC is now in substantial compliance with 12 items, with the Monitor noting the agency is close to substantial compliance with a handful of others. In addition, DOC continues to be in at least partial compliance with all requirements. “I always say progress is not linear, but the trend line points to continued improvements that will make the facility safer for both youth and staff," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “The steps this administration has taken at Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School have not always been easy. However, I believe they were necessary to transform the schools into a facility where youth are provided evidence-based treatment and education, not just punishment." One major highlight of this latest report is the relationship between youth and staff seemed improved during the site visit in October, compared to the Monitor's previous visit. The Monitor cited positive body language and tone from both youth and staff. “None of the youth made a single complaint to the Monitoring team even when asked probing questions," the Monitor wrote in the report. “Previously, youth complained about food, education, not being let out of their rooms to use the bathroom when needed, being confined, staff not engaging with them, staff going hands on too soon, staff not caring about them and general treatment. Youth did not make any of these complaints this site visit. In fact, several youths spoke to the Monitoring team and indicated that the facility culture, programs, and safety is much better now compared to their previous commitments to the facility. This is a good sign that the facility is moving in a positive direction." The Monitor also specifically pointed out facility improvements this administration has made, saying, “The physical plant is significantly safer than three years ago." Some of the latest facility-improvement projects include: Continuing installation in all living units of windows made of safety glass, which is very difficult to break and will improve safety while reduce the need to replace windows at the schools. Replacement of failing boilers in some living units New LED lighting in youth rooms and dayrooms that should make a critical difference in the coming winter months
The Report indicates the Monitor's opinion that the youth have responded positively to less idle/unstructured time. However, she states a need for even more structured and meaningful activities for youth, particularly during nights and weekends. To this end, Wisconsin DOC recently expanded weekend programing, but those steps will not be taken into consideration until the next report from the Monitor. Another concern noted in the report was an increase in use of mechanical restraints on youth in the summer months, numbers which have since come down. Also, the report notes an agreement between DOC and youth advocates on how to ensure observation status is not being used as a form of punitive confinement. Observation status is designed to be short-term confinement that allows for confined observation of youth who have been exhibiting behavior that could be dangerous to themselves or others. To address concerns about observation status being punitive, DOC will only be placing youth in observation status if they are a danger to themselves moving forward.
| | | | | 11/29/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Department of Corrections (DOC) is excited to announce the creation of a new Treatment Unit in the Division of Community Corrections (DCC). The Treatment Unit is the first of its kind in DCC, and will help to increase critical treatment and programming services to persons in the community on probation, parole and extended supervision. Since 2019, the Evers Administration has been actively working with the DOC to safely lower the prison population. In his Executive Budget, Governor Evers outlined a number of investments to improve outcomes, lower the prison population in Wisconsin, and increase treatment and programming. “Unfortunately, a number of the initiatives put forward by the Governor were either removed or significantly reduced by the legislature," said DOC Secretary Kevin A. Carr. “While the inaction of the legislature is unfortunate, our agency is committed to looking internally at the steps we can take to improve outcomes and help folks be successful." As part of that commitment, DOC has been working on several internal initiatives to safely reduce the number of people in Wisconsin prisons. One such initiative looked at practical ways to increase efficiency in violation responses while safely reducing the number of revocations. However, with an established commitment to keep more people out of prison, comes an increase in need for acceptable treatment options and programming in the community; a need that was already critical and lacking throughout the state. “It's our duty to help folks get the treatment and programming they need so they can be successful in the community before incarceration becomes our only option," said Carr. “By creating a Treatment Unit in DCC, we are relying less on outside resources and are better able to connect them to the services they need in a more timely and cost-effective manner." When an institution-based Alternative to Revocation program at the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF) was closed, DOC was finally able to seize upon an opportunity to increase out-patient services for DCC clients. DOC reallocated positions from the program at MSDF to DCC, creating one Clinical Supervisor position and seven new Treatment Specialist positions to serve clients throughout the state. The Treatment Specialists will assist in filling in the gaps in service DOC was finding in vendor programming in the community. They will be providing programming for substance use disorder, cognitive behavioral interventions, anger management and domestic violence. Holly Stanelle is the Clinical Supervisor overseeing the unit and believes the addition of this unit couldn't come at a better time. “With the pandemic, there has been an increase in substance use in the community, including those on community supervision. The opioid crisis has been particularly difficult and this initiative will allow our agency to tackle it head on," she said. The Treatment Unit will also be piloting a cognitive behavioral intervention for substance use - open ended curriculum, meaning individuals can enroll and start programming at any time. “Typically, most community providers aren't able to provide open-ended curriculum and we've found it can create issues with long wait lists for individuals who desperately need programming," said Stanelle. “So this will be an exciting change coming that will help get people the treatment they need, when they need it." Several of the Treatment Specialist positions have already been filled and all positions are expected to be filled by early 2022. | | | | | 12/9/2021 | | {OREGON, Wis.) — Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Secretary Kevin Carr joined members of the DOC's Bureau of Health Services and other guests at Oakhill Correctional Institution (OCI) Tuesday, to tour the facility's recently-completed Assisted Needs Facility. The $7 million addition is the first assisted needs housing in a Wisconsin DOC institution and is designed to meet the needs of an aging population. “Like any other agency that provides health care, Wisconsin DOC has to adjust to the changing needs of its patients. Like the rest of society, our population is aging," said DOC Secretary Kevin Carr. “As their needs change, due to advanced age and accumulation of chronic medical conditions, we have to adapt our health services to meet those needs. This new facility represents such a step." The expansion at the minimum-security institution in Oregon will allow patients to receive additional rehabilitative services following prolonged illness or surgery, and regain independent function. In addition, patients will be able to receive long-term care assistance with activities of daily living. “A number of people in our care have limited mobility and chronic medical conditions that make living in traditional correctional settings difficult, and it is also difficult for our staff to provide them with adequate care and supervision in such settings," said DOC Medical Director Dr. Daniel LaVoie. This new service at OCI will compliment already existing long-term care DOC provides, including palliative and infirmary care at multiple institutions. The addition at OCI will be able to house 65 patients. The upper level will have 15 beds for those needing rehabilitative services, and monitoring and care from nurses. The lower level can house up to 50 people who need an adaptive/assisted living environment. The DOC continues to hire staff for the new Assisted Needs Facility and is expecting to welcome patients in early 2022. The building was designed by Venture Architects and constructed by Cullen.
| | | | | 12/13/2021 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Several southeast Wisconsin businesses sent representatives to Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility (RYOCF) Thursday morning, where they joined Department of Corrections (DOC) Secretary Kevin Carr and Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary-Designee Amy Pechacek to see the skills young men are learning in the institution's mobile Mechatronics Lab. The secretaries and the employers got to view the students' final projects and see what they've learned from their Gateway Technical College instructor. “What a tremendous collaboration," said Secretary Carr. “Two state agencies partnering with one our state's fine technical colleges to help these young men learn skills that make them more attractive to employers in the manufacturing industry." The Mechatronics lab is the fifth mobile training lab at a DOC institution, part of a continued collaboration between DOC and DWD to improve pre-release workforce training opportunities for people in DOC care. “This administration is committed to providing people the opportunity to learn skills that can help them be successful. These young men are learning things that will do more than help themselves and their families. Increasing the state's skilled workforce benefits all of Wisconsin," said DWD Secretary-Designee Pechacek. “When I was in high school, I didn't think of myself as a very good student. That has changed here," said one of the young men learning in the lab, adding that he is now interested in getting his associate's degree from Gateway when his time at the correctional facility is finished. The Mechatronics lab, a semi-trailer that can be moved between DOC institutions, was completed this year and arrived at RYOCF in June. This is the first group to use the lab. They are earning 18 college credits and a Mechatronics Technical Certificate, which they will receive in a graduation ceremony on December 14. The lab can serve up to 12 students per group, and Gateway Technical College intends to train three groups per year. “These young men should have no problem getting a good-paying job in this field after what they've learned here," said Gateway Technical College instructor J.D. Jones, the man who has been teaching in the mobile Mechatronics Lab. Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field that refers to the skill sets needed in the contemporary, advanced automated manufacturing industry. The field is at the intersection of mechanics, electronics, and computing. According to Jones, jobs in the field once paid $20-$25 an hour, but are now often paying $25-$30. In addition to the Mechatronics Lab, Secretaries Pechacek and Carr got a look at RYOCF's new Jobs Lab, another collaboration between DOC and DWD. The Job Lab allows people in DOC care at RYOCF to get a head start on their job search. They can create a Job Center of Wisconsin account, and apply and interview for jobs before they return to their community. The DOC releases approximately 9,000 people every year, and evidence shows a steady job lowers the chances of a person returning to a DOC institution. The Evers Administration has made a major invest in mobile training and job labs. Over the past two years, the number of mobile training labs at DOC institutions has increased from one to five. By the end of this year, there will be 10 institution-based Job Labs, plus a mobile Job Lab that can serve multiple institutions. | | | | | 1/21/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) -- Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes joined the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) and Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Friday morning to honor the accomplishments of 25 men and women in DOC care who received their diplomas from MATC. All earned their Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree in either the Spring or Fall semester of 2021. Lt. Governor Barnes commended the graduates, but he also spoke with them about obstacles they may have faced prior to incarceration and will face upon release. “This program is one step in the direction of destigmatizing the reentry process, and helping everyone establish what they want for the future, for themselves and their families," he said. “I want to thank everyone who has helped make this program a success." “I believe education is vital," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr told the graduates. “That's why I'm so proud of this collaboration with MATC, and why I'm so proud of you today, because it's about you. I can sit here and talk about all the people, partnerships and resources it took to make this happen, but really at the end of the day, it came down to each of you setting a goal and making the commitment to earn your degree. No matter the challenges you face in the future, nothing can take away that degree. Nothing can take away your accomplishment today as a graduate." The graduates are part of the Second Chance Pell pilot program, a collaborative effort between DOC and MATC that has grown significantly in recent years, from 13 DOC students in the Spring semester of 2017 semester to 192 last Spring. “For the candidates for graduation today, I use the word extraordinary, for the decision each of you made to take positive step forward," said MATC President Dr. Vicki Martin. “To all of you, I want to say congratulations." Martin Medina, a person in DOC care at Redgranite Correctional Institution, served as the graduate speaker for the group. He started by saying that, initially, he didn't want to be in the position, explaining that he is naturally an introvert. He also shared a little about his journey growing up a minority in poverty, with no college graduates in his immediate family. He also acknowledged the challenges faced over the past few years along the road to this day. “But here we are, college graduates," he said to his fellow graduates. “Though change is inevitable, positive change is what matters and that is what we represent today … We make no excuse for the past, just equal opportunity for the future." Due to current COIVD-19 protocols, DOC held the event and connected the graduates via videoconference, so they could all watch as diplomas were awarded in smaller, individual ceremonies at their respective institutions, including Fox Lake Correctional Institution, Oakhill Correctional Institution, Redgranite Correctional Institution, Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center, Marshall E. Sherrer Correctional Center, Felmers O. Chaney Correctional Center, Racine Correctional Institution, Drug Abuse Correctional Center, Thompson Correctional Center and Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution.
| | | | | 2/2/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The latest report from the court-appointed Monitor for Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School (LHS/CLS) was filed Wednesday. The 12th Report from the Monitor notes progress made by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) in reaching “Substantial Compliance" with more aspects of a consent decree, which stems from a 2017 lawsuit and investigation into substandard conditions at the facility under the previous administration. The Monitor's latest visit came January 13-14, and included interviews with 39 youth and 27 staff members at LHS/CLS. The interviews revealed a continuing overall positive atmosphere at the schools, and positive body language and tone among both staff and youth. “The youth-staff relationship in general seems positive and youth told the Monitor on many occasions that they liked the staff," the report states. This 12th Report detailed several physical improvements to the facilities, including the renovation of an unused living unit into a recreation space that includes a variety of games and a kitchen where youth can cook/bake. According to the Monitor, “The Unit looks amazing … Staff and youth are enjoying the space." Other facility improvement work noted in the report includes: Continued work on a lighting project that will significantly improve the atmosphere in living units Replacing boilers in some living units Adding more than 100 fixed cameras around the facility to improve safety Purchasing additional software and hardware for the school's Music Arts Initiative Upgrading electrical in the welding shop, paving the way for use of newer equipment
“The Defendants should be commended for their continuing commitment to improve the physical plant which improves the daily lives for staff and youth," the Monitor wrote in the report. Gov. Tony Evers recently expressed similar sentiments to LHS/CLS staff, in-person. The Governor visited the schools the week before the Monitor's visit. He toured the facility, met with some of the youth there and thanked staff members for their hard work. About the latest Monitor's Report, DOC Sec. Kevin Carr said, “I am extremely proud of the work being done by leadership at the schools and in our Division of Juvenile Corrections to update LHS/CLS, and also to improve working conditions for our staff and outcomes for youth in our care. We thank the Monitor for noting the positives steps our agency has taken and for pointing out areas for further improvement." Those recommendations for improvement include expanding popular programs like music, art and recreation, particularly on weekends. In this report, the Monitor acknowledged the expansion of the welding program to weekends and a decrease in the amount of time designated as weekend leisure activity for youth. However, she called for an even greater increase in structured programming on weekends, when youth have more idle time. The Monitor heard no complaints from youth during the last visit, in the Fall. This time, the Monitor did hear concerns from some youth, including complaints about food and lack of consistency in rules. “Youth had good things to say as well such as feeling safe, having some good staff that engage with them, (and) liking the recreation unit and music program," the report stated. Other items of note in the report: Recruiting should be a priority, but staffing levels remain adequate for the reduced population at the facility Decreasing physical and mechanical restraint of youth during this data cycle Decreasing use of “self-requested" room confinement among youth
“I credit our staff with being flexible as we have adjusted to new behavior response and de-escalation techniques, and implemented a new behavior management system," said LHS/CLS Superintendent Klint Trevino. “Thanks to their hard work, we have made major strides in a relatively short amount of time, and are now in a place where we can continue to make smaller adjustments, fine tune, and keep improving our processes." | | | | | 2/25/2022 | | Madison, Wis. - The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) announced Friday that it is reopening its facilities for in-person visitation starting Tuesday March 1, due to a continued decrease in COVID-19 activity. “We appreciate the patience and understanding of those in our care and their loved ones as we have navigated the COVID-19 pandemic," said DOC Sec. Kevin A. Carr. “Family connection during incarceration has shown to have a positive impact on success upon return to the community, and in-person visitation is one way of maintaining that connection." As of Thursday, Feb. 24, there were 77 active COVID-19 infections among people in DOC care and 22 DOC employees with active cases across the entire agency. In addition, 83% of people currently in DOC care have completed their initial vaccine series, and more than 69% of those eligible for a booster dose have received one. This data and more can be found on Wisconsin DOC's COVID-19 Information Home page. In addition to in-person visits from approved visitors:
- Attorney and professional visits will resume beginning March 1
- All volunteers/contractors will again be allowed access to DOC facilities March 1
- Resumption of programming facilitated by volunteers/contractors can also resume beginning March 1
- Medical offsite visits will no longer be subject to case-by-case evaluation and potential limitation starting March 1
Anyone visiting a DOC correctional institution or center will be subject to any current guidance related to masking and testing. This marks the second time DOC has reopened for in-person visits since the beginning of the pandemic. After initially closing its facilities to all but necessary personnel in March of 2020, the agency reopened its doors for in-person visits in July of 2021. However, access to DOC facilities was limited again in December 2021 when infections from the Omicron variant swept across the state. “Of course, we're happy to resume many normal operations, and we hope there are no more suspensions of those operations. However, we have and will continue to follow the science in our COVID-19 mitigation efforts," Sec. Carr said.
With in-person visits suspended for much of the past year, DOC has offered two free phone calls per week to those in its care. The agency also worked to install video conferencing systems in its facilities to help loved ones stay connected, and that option will remain in place. While in-person visits are resuming, some DOC facilities may modify visitation days/times as needed. Wisconsin's Division of Adult Institutions cares for nearly 20,000 incarcerated across 36 institutions and correctional centers across the state.
| | | | | 2/28/2022 | | Black History Month is a time to celebrate the immeasurable contributions of Black Americans, honor the achievements of generations past and acknowledge the inequities that still exist today. This year's theme, Black Health and Wellness, pays homage to the legacy of scholars and medical practitioners in Western medicine who changed the course of our nation's history. We spoke with DOC's Nursing Director Mary Muse on her experiences in correctional nursing to better understand the significance of this important month. What is your current position with the DOC and what has your career path in the medical field looked like?
In my position as Director of Nursing, I provide guidance and recommendations for the safe practice of nursing and care delivery across the Department of Corrections. I view my role as articulating standards of professional practice, and promoting the evolution of professional correctional nursing that is impactful for the health outcomes of our patient population and those in our care. As the Director of Nursing I try to articulate a framework for care delivery of practice that improves care, builds trust between those in our care, and leads to improved patients out comes. The other important piece for me is raising the level of professional practice and highlighting the contributions of correctional nurses to public health. My career path has been focused on making a difference and improving the lives of others. I choose to pursue a professional career in nursing. I knew I wanted to be a nurse at an early age, I was seven years old, and nursing has been my passion, I have never regretted this career choice, and it has served me well. As a young girl I recall receiving a nursing bag as a gift, and I recall watching the TV show “Julia", my aunt changed careers and became a nurse. I recall how impressed I was with her studying, uniform and work as a nurse. While in grammar school I wrote a letter to Texas A & M expressing my interest in nursing. In high school I focused on the sciences, taking biology and advanced chemistry. I also studied Latin for two years, to prepare me for my nursing career. After graduation I went on to a four year college to study nursing, I was concerned when I learned there was not a guarantee you would enter the nursing program in your sophomore year. That concern and my passion for nursing prompted me to transfer schools so I would be assured of getting into the nursing program. Following completion of my nursing program I took a nursing position at Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, which is where I really developed professionally as a nurse. Michael Reese was an empowering environment for nurses and the work culture was inspirational. My experience at Michael Reese afforded me the opportunity to develop my nursing practice as a clinician and in leadership. I continued to expand my growth and development over 15 years , promoting to Assistant Nurse Manager and Manager of Pediatrics. I would later assume responsibility for Pediatrics, Women's Health and medical-Surgical Nursing in the role of Nursing Manager. This experience prepared me to assume the leadership role of Clinical Director Medical-Surgical Nursing at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. During my tenure at Truman Medical Center I additionally was given responsibility as the Director for Critical Care Nursing. I later returned to Chicago as the Vice President for Nursing and Physician and Community Relations for a Community Hospital. In that role I was charged with rebuilding their nursing program and achieving JCHO accreditation which the hospital has lost. I am proud we not only recruited sufficient nursing staff but were instrumental in the hospital achieving its accreditation with the Joint Commission. In addition to leading nursing I also began teaching nursing courses. I have taught in Kansas City and Illinois at Institutions for higher learning. My journey to Correctional Health was not planned. I had no knowledge of correctional nursing. A former colleague told me about her current work in correctional nursing, she suggested I come by the jail and invited me to consult with her on some climate issues. In 1995, I ended up accepting a future job offer at Cermak Health Services of Cook County, the health service for Cook County Jail, and began my career in correctional health. When I first started working at the jail, I noticed the role of nursing and emphasis on professional practice was somewhat different than my experience in the hospital. When I asked questions I was frequently told, this is not a hospital, nursing is different in corrections. I also learned there was a perceived difference in how correctional nurses were perceived and valued. This experience got my attention and I began to image how I could up lift correctional nursing and improve care to underrepresented populations. To me nursing is nursing regardless of where you practice. I loved nursing , and my passion led me to commit to correctional nursing. My mission became focusing on I could turnaround and elevate the level of correctional nursing. That's what got me hooked, and now I've been in corrections for 27 years.
As a medical professional, can you talk about the importance of this month and theme? This theme has importance as we recognize the health disparities and inequities frequently experienced by people of color. The presence of black health professionals can be instrumental in addressing some of these health inequities and developing trusting relationships between the patient and clinician. Cultural competence is an important skill set for health professionals. As mentioned earlier, acknowledging the contributions of black health professionals is important for educating all people. Expanding the world view of those not of color is helpful in fostering the rich appreciation and history of those of color. It is also important that people of color recognize the contributions of Black Americans to the science of nursing, health and education – like Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, a black surgeon and cardiologist at Provident Hospital in Chicago. Dr. Williams performed the first successful heart surgery, founded the first black-owned hospital and established the Provident Hospital School of Nursing to educate and train blacks in nursing when they were not allowed entry into other programs. Provident Hospital continues to meet the needs of the community in Chicago and remains critical in delivering healthcare to an underserved community.
The month of February allows us to focus on the many cultural contributions of Black Americans who changed the course of history and made a lasting impact in their fields. Are there specific individuals from the Black community that gives you motivation or has been an inspiration throughout your career? Why?
There are several Individuals of color have impacted my life and have been an inspiration. The first would be Cynthia Barnes-Boyd, Director of the Office of Community Engagement and Neighborhood Health Partnerships for the University of Illinois. Cee died in 2017. I first met Cee, while I was in my Masters in Nursing Administration Program and a Manager of Pediatrics at Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago. At that time Cee was the Clinical Director for Maternal-Child Health at the University of Illinois Hospital. Cee served as my mentor during my Administrative practicum and we developed a professional relationship and her mentoring continued after I completed my MS degree. My career goal was to become a Chief Nursing Officer, becoming a Clinical Director would be the next professional step to accomplishing this career goal.
Lucile Davis, who was Dean of the School of Nursing at Saint Xavier College was instrumental as a role model, supporter and mentor. Dr. Davis gave me an opportunity to participate in writing and preparing for a school base health center grant. She also hired me to teach community nursing. My students and I were based out of a church of the West side of Chicago for their clinical experience.
Barbara Nichols, A Wisconsinite and first African American Nurse to lead the American Nurses Association, First black nurse editor of the American Journal of Nursing., Past President of the Wisconsin Nurses Association and served as Secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing.
Dr. Janice Phillips A high school friend and professional colleague, Dr. Janice Phillips. (Janice) and I were reconnected because of our careers in nursing. Janice has provided support and a listening ear as I have navigated my professional career in correctional nursing. She has been instrumental in guidance as I have worked to give voice and visibility to correctional nursing.
I had an opportunity to meet Dr. Mary Elizabeth Carnegie, that introduction was impactful. It was an honor to meet this distinguished mentor, nurse, educator and leader. Dr. Carnegie was a nurse, educator, serving as Professor and Dean at the University of Florida A&M, an author, She authored three editions of “The Paths We Thread: Blacks in Nursing". She was instrumental in advocating for full recognition of black nurses. She served as President of the American Academy of Nursing from 1978-1979 and is named as a Living Legend of the Academy.
Dr. Iris Shannon is another nurse leader that I had the honor to work with and meeting her was inspirational. II met Dr. Shannon while serving on the Community Health Board for Congressman, Danny Davis. Iris Shannon, public health nurse and former Chair for Community Health Nursing at Rush University and served as President of the American Public Health Association. Dr Shannon was instrumental in developing Miles Square Health Center in Chicago
Others who I feel have contributed to Black Health and Wellness for Nursing include Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first Black woman to earn a professional nursing license in the United States, Mary Seacole, a British-Jamaican nurse who set up a British Hotel to care for soldiers during the Crimean War, Harriet Tubman who acted as a nurse during the Civil War to care for black soldiers and blacks escaping slavery, and Susie Taylor who published her memoirs of war time experiences, a nurse and educator.
Is there anything else you would like to share? I appreciate the change in how we acknowledge the justice population by using the term “person in our care" instead of “inmate". I certainly encourage continued progression of positively impacting the lives of justice individuals. As health professionals, we have a unique opportunity to contribute to improving the health of those we serve. | | | | | 3/15/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Earlier this month, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) published its Primary Programs report, a measurement of the effectiveness of programming in the DOC's Division of Adult Institutions. The Report compared the rearrest, reconviction and reincarceration rates of those in each program with rates for those in a control group, at one, two and three years after return to the community. To learn more about the Report and its importance to the agency, we asked a series of questions to DOC Research and Policy Director, Dr. Megan Jones, and Office of Program Services Director, Lisa Reible. Q - What was the genesis of compiling this data and putting together this report? Dr. Jones - The Research and Policy Unit began doing this type of program evaluation in 2016. We put together some data looking at outcomes for the same primary programs that are presented in this report. However, at the time, we only had a few years' worth of data and most of the programs were in the process of being redesigned to be evidence-based. So, we decided to wait a few more years before doing the analyses again. Additionally, DOC underwent an audit by the Legislative Audit Bureau a few years ago, which led to a request that DOC produce this kind of evaluation on a regular basis. So, over the last year or so we started working on a new program evaluation, which is much more robust now that we have a larger sample to work with, and now that most programs have completed, or will soon complete, their program redesign. Q - Why are these programs important? Director Reible - The report highlights the main reason why these programs are important: they reduce recidivism and involvement with the criminal justice system. Not only do these programs reduce the cost of incarceration to Wisconsin taxpayers, they provide program participants with the tools they need to succeed and reintegrate back into society. Some programs provide participants with skills to join the workforce, while others provide them with skills to manage a healthy life free of substance abuse. When people return to the community and use the skills that these programs provide, our communities are safer. Q - The Report details how some programs have undergone changes over the eight years measured. How do you think those changes will impact the data moving forward? Director Reible - A portion of the data in this report is from years when DOC did not have system-wide, standardized program curriculum for our primary programs. With a systemic transition to programs that are proven to reduce recidivism, all future data for our programs will be on programs that are evidence-based. Because of this, DOC anticipates that future outcome data will provide even more significant results. Q - Why is it important that we measure outcomes of these programs? Dr. Jones - At the DOC, we want to provide opportunities for positive change and success for people in our care. To do that, we need to ensure that the programming we are providing is actually having the impact that is intended. Ultimately, we want to give people the tools they need to be successful in the community, and to not return to prison after they leave. That's why it's important to regularly assess whether participation in programs reduces recidivism in the community. It allows us to make changes and improvements to programs if they aren't working as intended, and allows us to focus funding on those programs that are most effective. Q - Can you explain how you created the control group? Dr. Jones - We used a statistical method called propensity score matching to create a control group for these evaluations. This method is often used in program evaluation, and allows evaluators to match people who completed programming with those who did not on a number of characteristics. The result is a control group that consists of people who look similar to those who completed programming. By doing this, we can have more confidence that any outcomes we see for the group that completed programming were attributable to the program, and not to other factors. Q - What did you take from the data collected from this report? Director Reible - This report confirmed what we knew but did not have the data to show: that our programs are effective and making a difference in the lives of those who participate in them! While the programs we provide had external research proving their effectiveness on justice-involved individuals, we now have our own data that demonstrates that what we are doing is effective with the Wisconsin population. The data is also a testament to the impact of the work of our treatment providers and educators who feel strongly about what they do and the difference their efforts make. The report makes it very clear that Wisconsin is safer because of their efforts.
| | | | | 4/21/2022 | | April marks National Second Chance Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of ensuring the safe and successful reentry of the more than 640,000 individuals returning to their communities after incarceration each year. Over the course of the month, we're highlighting the people and programs of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) at the root of many successful outcomes – featuring real stories from those in our care with lived experience.
Opening Avenues to Reentry Success (OARS) helps individuals living with serious mental illnesses reenter society after their release by providing intensive case management and housing while linking participants to psychiatric treatment and other individualized needs. A joint partnership with the Department of Health Services, the program served 463 participants in FY2021. A former participant shares his experience with OARS below. My name is David Hehn. I was incarcerated for 14 years from 2007–2021.
When I returned to the world last June, I didn't know how “institutionalized" I had become after spending all that time in prison. I was soon to find out. The world, Milwaukee in general, has changed so very much. Technology is everywhere now. I was in culture shock and wasn't ready for the outside world when I first got out. I was lost. I could have slipped through the cracks if it were not for OARS! OARS handled me with kindness and basically taught me how to function in the world. I didn't know how to use the bus. OARS got me a bus pass and showed me how it works. When I had no clothes whatsoever, OARS took me to Salvation Army, Goodwill and Walmart. The first time going to a Walmart after being incarcerated was shocking. It was like sensory overload – so many people, so much activity, so many new things. I, quite frankly, had a panic attack. OARS understood. OARS helped me readjust to the world. I was basically a little kid who had to relearn how to function in the world all over again. OARS understood this and was kind, and most of all, patient. Having so many appointments when I first got out was overwhelming. OARS got me a Walmart phone with minutes to help me manage all of them and showed me how to operate the phone. At first, I couldn't even understand how to make a phone call on a smartphone. I had never seen one since I was incarcerated for so long. OARS showed outstanding patience when dealing with me and even programmed my phone, which I could have never done having been so technologically deprived for so long. Without their help I wouldn't have been able to function. I probably would have ended up being one of those people you see on the street. I was pretty much so institutionalized that I couldn't do anything on my own the first few days. OARS took me to Our Space, a local mental health organization, and helped me pick out clothes and get household items so I could be independent. There were so many appointments when I first got out that it was overwhelming. OARS took me to these appointments. OARS got me stable and I would like to thank OARS for all it has done for me.
OARS got me a very nice new bicycle with a lock from Walmart so I could travel around the city. OARS referred me to WCS for job training. I took forklift classes and OSHA classes at MSCS through OARS suggestion and earned both certifications. I had wanted to get back into warehouse work having done so in the 1990's and prior to incarceration. OARS helped make that a reality. OARS referred me to WCS where they made me a resume and where they guided me on how to use the computer to look for jobs. OARS helped me sign up for FoodShare so I could get food and took me to a food pantry. I got so much food that there is no way I could have carried it around the city. OARS was kind enough to transport me and the food. OARS showed me how to operate the computer checkout at Walmart. There was no way I could have done that on my own in the beginning. I know it's hard to comprehend how inept I was, but being “institutionalized" is real and I had no idea how badly it was until I was released into the world. I would like to thank them for all they have done for me! OARS recommended places to find work and I'm happy to report that I now feel pretty confident about functioning in the world and have found a job, thanks to OARS and my whole support team at WCS. OARS even found me a mentor with a similar past who has been very supportive and has helped me in time of crisis. I'm currently working and slowly adjusting to being independent. Your programs help reintegrate individuals formerly incarcerated back into society and stabilize our lives so that we can function. I am eternally grateful to OARS and WCS! You guys rebuild lives!!! Thank you for everything you've done and for making the world a better place, one person at a time!!!
| | | | | 4/22/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Earlier this week, the Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility (RYOCF) threw a surprise birthday party for one of their most tenured volunteers, Sister Lois Aceto. Sister Lois turned 91 on Thursday, April 21, and the facility wanted to show its appreciation for all her hard work with the young men at RYOCF, which began when the facility first opened in 1998. It was also a fitting celebration for National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 17-23 this year. Staff at the facility created and signed cards in preparation for Wednesday's surprise party. The institution also presented Sister Lois with a Dedicated Volunteer Recognition certificate and a Commitment to Excellence plaque, which read, “The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others." “She's really a rock, she's just so dependable," said Corrections Program Supervisor, Deborah Buettler, when asked what Sister Lois means to the facility. “She has not missed one day without it being pre-scheduled. The joy and the care that she brings comes right out of her." Sister Lois had nothing but positive things to say about her time volunteering at RYOCF. “It's been a blessing for me, because I've been able to grow with these guys," she said. “This isn't my job, this is my ministry. This is my place to offer my whole being to them." Sister Lois also shared her thoughts about the importance of the work she does with these young men at the facility. “They're worth the energy. These guys are young yet, they're just starting out," she stated. “They have a chance to change, and you have to have the confidence in them that they will change. They're worth every effort." Sister Lois has volunteered at the facility for more than 20 years, and teaches conflict resolution and restorative justice. Her work in the community has not gone unnoticed over the years. The Kenosha-Racine Counties Chapter 1123 of Phi Delta Kappa at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside presented Sister Lois with an Outstanding Educator Award in April of 2017. She has also written a book about her experiences as a nun in Bolivia and Spain, titled Journey Toward Justice. The DOC recognizes the impact that volunteers such as Sister Lois have on those in our care, and we commend her for her dedication and commitment. We wish her a happy birthday and thank her for her service to the state of Wisconsin. | | | | | 4/28/2022 | |
April marks National Second Chance Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of ensuring the safe and successful reentry of the more than 640,000 individuals returning to their communities after incarceration each year. Over the course of the month, we're highlighting the people and programs of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) at the root of many successful outcomes – featuring real stories from those in our care with lived experience. Windows to Work (W2W) is a pre- and post-release program designed to address criminogenic needs that can lead to recidivism, such as employment and education. The Mechatronics Lab is one of five mobile training labs at DOC institutions that teach skills in high-demand fields in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and Gateway Technical College. Below is a conversation with a person in our care who was enrolled in the Windows to Work program and recently completed training in the Mechatronics Lab at Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility (RYOCF). He was given an opportunity to speak with various employers prior to his release, received assistance preparing a resume and cover letter and even scheduled an interview with a prospective employer the day before his release date. He received two job offers — one directly related to his work in the Mechatronics Lab that will allow him to make well over $20/hour in just 90 days after starting employment. He will also receive paid training towards an associate's degree upon the completion of one year of employment.
Q: What employment goals did you have for yourself prior to entering the Windows to Work (W2W) program? A: None. Zero. I thought I would go back to selling drugs. Q: How did the W2W pre-release curriculum prepare you for your reentry and assist you in obtaining employment post-release? A: With the program, it gave me hope and resources to do better things. It helped me build the confidence for when I got home to be prepared for interviews. Q: Were there any specific barriers to employment that W2W assisted you with (transportation, work supplies or clothing, legal documents, resume, housing, food or financial assistance)? If so, how did this assistance help you become successful? A: They helped me with my resume, and (helped me) overcome the process of thinking about fast money and leading a stable life. Q: Overall, what do you feel you got out of the program and how did it prepare you to achieve your employment goals? A: The confidence to go into an interview for a job that I know I got the job even before it was offered to me. I took so many college classes while in the institution that it prepared me for the work environment, and the Windows to Work helped me with the professional thoughts. Q: How satisfied are you with your experience in the Windows to Work program? A: I'm satisfied. I believe it would benefit everyone who would take advantage of it in the proper way. It was an enjoyable program and one that I looked forward to going to. It helped me with the positive thinking. It is in its own category – it didn't really trump other programs. Q: What interested you in becoming involved in the Mechatronics Lab at RYOCF? A: I was supposed to take a different college class, but it was too long. (RYOCF Educational Director) Ms. Davis came to me and asked if I was interested in taking another program. She said, “I'm not going to tell you what it is – you just need to trust me." I did, and the Mechatronics Lab was the best program I took part in. Q: Can you please describe your experience while participating in the Mechatronics Lab? A: There were ups and downs. It grew into a mini-family in there. Words cannot describe how a person feels in there. It was a great environment and there were no negative vibes. (Gateway Technical College instructor) Mr. Jones knew how to teach us and was a great instructor. No other words than I was thankful for it and the best experience ever. Q: How did your time working in the Mechatronics Lab prepare you for release and achieve your employment reentry goals? A: They prepared us by 40-hour weeks in the lab and what a work environment is like. I have achieved a job in the field and continue to have interview offers in the field. Q: Are there any specific personal accomplishments it created for you pre- and post-release related to employment? A: It gave me the opportunity to get a well-paying job and to start a career while not worrying about financial survival. Pre-release, is the first time my mom has ever seen me accept something positive. Q: Overall, how satisfied are you with your experience in the Mechatronics Lab at RYOCF? A: So satisfied!!! On a scale of 1-10, it would rate 100!! | | | | | 4/29/2022 | | April marks National Second Chance Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of ensuring the safe and successful reentry of the more than 640,000 individuals returning to their communities after incarceration each year. Over the course of the month, we're highlighting the people and programs of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) at the root of many successful outcomes – featuring real stories from those in our care with lived experience. As a collaboration between the Reentry Unit, Division of Adult Institutions (DAI) and University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Social Work, the Parenting Inside Out-90 Hour (PIO-90) program has been offered at all three women facilities: Taycheedah Correctional Institution, Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center, and Milwaukee Women’s Correctional Center, as well as one male facility: Green Bay Correctional Institution. Read more about the parenting skills training program here.
Developed in the State of Oregon, PIO-90 is a research-based curriculum targeting parent management skills using a cognitive-behavioral and collaborative approach between the parenting coach and the participant. Participants hope to gain skills to strengthen their own parenting and communication styles, while also building a stronger and collaborative relationship with their child's caregivers in the community. Below are a few testimonials from participants on the impact of the PIO-90 program.
“The materials go beyond just parenting and helps develop and encourage growth of us as people. Also helps with communication, listening, etc. in all relationships. Very grateful to have been able to participate, learn, and grow." —participant at Milwaukee Women's Correctional Center “Parenting Inside Out was the most helpful group experience I've had since I been in prison. Mrs. Wertel and Captain Cummings do an amazing job running the class because they also participate by sharing their own personal memories of parenting their kids and also the way they were raised by their own parents…To a person who is really committed, this group can be life changing. It has a lasting effect on mine." —participant at Green Bay Correctional Institution
“I learned so many tools and skills that not only will help me as a parent but in life also dealing with people. The one tool or skill we learned that is universal is effective communication and listening. I am a father of three beautiful little girls ages 6, 7, and 8 years old and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to take this program." —participant at Green Bay Correctional Institution “I really enjoyed our group. Ms. Tredo did a great job. I have learned a lot of new things to help with my parenting upon release." —participant at Milwaukee Women's Correctional Center
The Department of Corrections continues to improve upon parenting offerings and recently trained eleven new facilitators in the PIO-90 curriculum. Such expansion will allow for more individuals to be served at the current sites and provide additional support for our current facilitators. We also continue to partner with the UW-Madison School of Social Work to provide technical assistance and support for our facilitators.
| | | | | 5/5/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections' Division of Juvenile Corrections (DJC) has had a long and successful partnership with the Madison Public Library. The ongoing collaboration has provided non-traditional learning opportunities to connect with youth at GROW Academy, and help them process emotions and learn new skills. In previous years, the youth have used this time to learn how to record music, however this year the youth had another idea in mind: Podcasting. Over the last decade, there has been a nationwide shift in approaches to juvenile justice. Reform efforts have reduced the use of secure confinement and instead looked for ways to invest in more community-based programming focused on treatment. In Wisconsin, DOC Secretary Kevin Carr and Governor Tony Evers' administration have taken several steps to end harmful practices in confinement settings, and instead introduce evidence-based approaches to promote self-regulation and pro-social interpersonal skills to help youth understand the cues that trigger emotions. The GROW Academy is located just outside Madison in Oregon. It offers residential programming and comprehensive treatment for County and State-supervised youth as an alternative to incarceration. GROW also serves as a transitional step down for youth returning to the community. GROW has built a coalition of community partnerships to help offer high-quality opportunities to youth in DOC care, including the partnership with the Madison Public Library. Rob Franklin, or Rob Dz as he is more commonly known in the community, is the Media Project Bubblerarian for Madison Public Library. Rob Dz engages local youth by incorporating Hip Hop into learning. He has been working with GROW for years, helping youth write, produce and record music. Springtime at GROW means a new cohort of students for Rob Dz and his co-teachers Tyler Brunsell and Mark "Shah" Evans. The first class began by encouraging youth to think about how they could tell their stories through music. In previous years, the youth have been excited to create and record their own songs, but this year's group had ideas of their own. “There were mixed emotions from the youth" says Jonathan, a teacher at GROW. “We're always aware of the difficulties that come with connecting with youth, especially teens. It can be challenging and we could tell pretty early on that this group was not connecting with the traditional approaches to music recording." The lack of interest among youth was surprising to staff and unprecedented for the program, however Rob Dz saw it as an opportunity to find passion in other areas. “We began brainstorming new projects and the youth very quickly turned their interest to podcasting." With this new project underway, each student was tasked with choosing one topic of interest for their own podcast episode. The episodes, now in the planning stages, will include topics on 1. Nonsense, 2. Sports, 3. Cars, and 4. Real Talk. “The work is still evolving" says Jonathan. “The youth are working on developing questions and content for their episode. They will interview each other, produce their own theme song for their episode and even create beats to reflect who they are." Last month we were able to observe the youth as they prepare the four-episode podcast titled, “We GROW". As we made our way into their classroom, the students were already studying examples of other podcasts. Rob Dz hit stop on the YouTube video playing and loudly exclaimed, “You're about to start your podcast". As the students watched him with an intense look on their faces, he continued. “I want you to think about what your flavor is. What's your personality? That's what podcasts are all about. Personality". Rob Dz then returned to the screen and hit play. “Lil Durk: Million Dollaz Worth of Game Episode 157" plays loudly and uncensored. You can feel the mood shift in the room. Some of the youth started to tap their feet along the hard floors beneath their desks as the beats of the podcast began to tell its own story. Rob asked the youth if the felt the “vibing" that was happening between the host and the guest, and some youth nod their heads as he adds, “You might have prepared questions but you've got to be flexible. Podcasting is a conversation and feeling the vibe is important." As the youth take a break, we talked to Rob Dz about his work with GROW and the youth in the community. “Mentorship is important to me. Sharing our stories can be difficult, however using non-traditional methods such as hip hop has been a great way for youth to learn and share." As the youth made their way back to their desks, they picked up black and silver headphones and wrapped them around their necks. One by one, they opened their laptops containing large, eye-catching “BUBBLER" stickers affixed to the top. The students began working on their beats for their episode. A distinct and palpable excitement seemed to take over the room as the students finally, and somewhat unknowingly, began to experience the impact music can have on one's emotional state. Rob Dz can see the moment happening, but doesn't use any words. Instead he focuses on the music. The recording of the podcast is still underway, but Rob Dz and the staff at GROW hope to publish it, while still protecting the privacy of the youth in the program.
| | | | | 5/18/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Department of Corrections (DOC) leadership recently recognized hundreds of employees for their talents, dedication and commitment to our agency and the citizens of Wisconsin during a formal ceremony held on Friday, May 6 in the Assembly Chambers of the Wisconsin State Capitol. Employees from across the state, and represented by each division, are honored each year through the selection of diverse awards highlighting their outstanding performance and exceptional contributions. The awards honor individual staff members or groups nominated by their peers or supervisors in three categories: Secretary's SALUTE, Lifesaving & Valor and Spotlight on Excellence, a new award for 2022!
The ceremony was well-attended by the winners, their nominators and several of their guests. The event was also streamed live on DOC's Facebook for those unable to attend in-person. Please help us congratulate the following award winners from the Division of Adult Institutions (DAI), Division of Community Corrections (DCC), Division of Juvenile Corrections (DJC), Division of Management Services (DMS) and the Office of the Secretary (OOS): The Secretary's SALUTE Award recognizes individual employees for their contributions to the agency relative to the Secretary's six pillars of success: Service, Awareness, Leadership, Unique, Team and Excellence
SERVICE- Alicia Wegener, Amy Brushwood, Corey Brandenburg, Daniel Rigney, Dawn Taskay, Craig Rosenthal, Juan Fernandez, Eric Dichsen, Gina Wimmer, Heather Phelps, Julie Beeney, Kara Knott, Kerry Buechner, Kristi McGee, Kristin Luoma, Laurie Ramsey, Michelle Zindorf, Nancy Bernarde, Rebecca Chapin, Rebecca Laiter, Samantha Bjelland, Samantha Lang, Sujata Karki, DJC Lincoln Hills School Health Services Unit
- Andrea Olmanson, Angela Riniker, Bronwyn Baldwin, Caitlin Washburn, Christine Freeland, Glen MercierII, Jad Itani, Jennifer Carter, Katharine Ariss, Matthew Foley, Michelle Zaccard, Shancethea Leatherwood, Todd Allen, William Max Levins, OOS Office of Legal Counsel
AWARENESS - Holly Stanelle, DCC Treatment Unit
LEADERSHIP - Gary Mitchell, DAI Marshall E. Sherrer Correctional Center
- Steven Johnson, DAI Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility
UNIQUE - Andrea Robinson, Anna Curl, Anthony Streveler, Barbara Goetsch, Cari Taylor, Casey Bouchard, Daniel Schroeder, Erich Wuerslin, Gina Carney, Grace Knutson, Heather Dedering, Jessica Liptow, Julia Krause, Katherine Mears, Katie Garrett, Kelly Kincaid, Lori Bowers, Maradith Mcquillan, Marie Peterson, Monica Lukach, Nicole Griffiths, Rebecca Mahin, Reid Wurtzel, Robert Fugate III, Ryan Pierce, Sandra Pederson, Sandra Luder, Sandra Cornell, Sarah Messer, Sarah Wescott, Sarah Aho, Steven Landreman, Susan Baumann, Teresa Schultz, Valerie Santana, DCC Sex Offender Registrant Portal Team
- Akhil Kamunipally, Gregory Baker, James Pyka, Matt Flatau, Mathew Larson, DMS Bureau of Technology Management:
TEAM - Alan Barthel, Brian Fellner, Dace Branson, Frederick Boehme, John Binner, Joshua Kratochvil, Michael Heiser, Travis Knecht, DAI Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center
- Alyson Skelton, Anthony Holt, Jacob Wegner, James Kotlowski, John Bahr, Justin Landaal, Lindsey Hisel, DAI Fox Lake Correctional Institution
EXCELLENCE - Angela Hansen, DAI Bureau of Classification and Movement
The Secretary's Lifesaving & Valor Award recognizes employees for displaying exceptional bravery or who performed a courageous act, above and beyond the call of duty, to save a life or assist in an emergency situation. - Julie Smith, DCC Region 7
- Nicholas Lawler-Benishek, DAI Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility
- Russell Mezera, DAI Wisconsin Secure Program Facility
- Angela Thompson, April Albertson, Brian Miller, Christopher Hoch, Cindy Barter, Eric Barber, Jason Kettenhoven, Jennifer Krueger, Jeremy Baxter, Kristopher Allen, Louis Taylor, Michael Sholar Jr., Nicholas Freitag, Randy Nicholson, Richard Markowski, Sara Miller, Terry Sawall, Troy Hoernke, DAI Redgranite Correctional Institution
- Danielle Robinson, Jonathan Bohnsack, Kaylene Betancourt, Samantha Gauf, DAI Columbia Correctional Institution
- Brad Schlosstein, DCC Region 4
- Carlee Mayer, Marc Peterson, Ryan Hartwig, Susan Bender, DCC Region 1
- Ann Lindahl, Anthony Torres, Juan Ramos, Karen Jazwiecki, LaTosha Logwood, Yennisse Alcantara, DCC Region 3
- Stacy Rohloff, DCC Region 4
- Rexford Smith, DAI Wisconsin Resource Center
The Secretary's Spotlight on Excellence Award recognizes employees for displaying leadership and extraordinary service to the agency relative to DOC's Strategic Priorities: Operational Excellence, Transparency & Public Accountability, Workforce Investments or Corrections Reform. - Anna Neal, John Beard, Kelsey Adams, Zachary Osell, OOS Office of Public Affairs
- Vernon Boyd, DAI Marshall E. Sherrer Correctional Center
- Connie Baker, DCC Region 8
- Rick Lamere, DJC Lincoln Hills/Copper Lake School
- Shannon Butcher, DMS Corrections Training Center
- Rebecca Hoefs, DMS Bureau of Finance and Administrative Services
RUNNER UP WINNERS- Rebecca Heth, OOS Reentry Unit
- Jennifer Lindow, DAI Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility
- Kathy Cascadden, DAI Columbia Correctional Institution
- Katherine Mears, DCC Sex Offender Registry Programs
- Amy Kober, DCC Region 7
- Lonnie Morgan, DJC Northwestern Regional Offices
- Sheila Corroo, DJC Lincoln Hills/Copper Lake School
- Terry Jones, DJC Grow Academy
- Gregory Baker, DMS Bureau of Technology Management
| | | | | 5/20/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Several Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Probation and Parole units recently installed Nalox-Zone Boxes in their offices, the agency's latest step to help combat a growing opioid epidemic among clients on supervision. A Nalox-Zone Box is a rescue kit designed to help prevent death from an opioid overdose. It resembles the AED devices often found in public buildings, except it contains naloxone. Naloxone, which may be better known by one of its brand names, Narcan, is a medicine designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Each box contains two doses of Narcan, a rescue breathing apparatus to be used for CPR, a community resource card and instructions for how to reverse a suspected opioid overdose. “Opioid use and overdoses are a major concern in Wisconsin communities and among people on DOC supervision," noted Wisconsin DOC Division of Community Corrections (DCC) Assistant Administrator Dr. Autumn Lacy. “We're looking for ways to try and address this epidemic through our policies, procedures and various initiatives." DCC's Harm Reduction Workgroup recommended to pilot the use of these boxes after learning that Nalox-Zone Boxes were being used as a harm reduction strategy by various states, as well as other public and private agencies throughout Wisconsin. DOC is partnering with Wisconsin Voices for Recovery, a group based in Madison that purchased the boxes, will maintain them and provide the Narcan. Boxes have been placed in several DCC offices throughout the state, with more scheduled for installation in the near future. “Access to naloxone and related products by our clients is one opportunity to reduce opioid harm," Dr. Lacy said. “We're using our DCC waiting rooms for product accessibility because they are high-traffic areas. The boxes were installed in the entry way in an effort to support anonymity and focus on the lifesaving impact that administering naloxone can have on clients the department is serving." Wisconsin Voices for Recovery is working to place Nalox-Zone Boxes in other spaces in Wisconsin communities, not just DCC offices. In Fiscal Year 2021, DOC had 964 reported overdoses among clients on supervision, with 154 resulting in death DOC recently created an overdose death review team to identify gaps in resources, and to recommend policy and practice changes to address these gaps. In addition, some DCC probation and parole agents have started providing naloxone to clients that are at risk of an opioid overdose. DCC is aware that this initiative has helped save lives of those on supervision. Along with the naloxone initiatives, DOC supports the funding of all three FDA approved medication assisted treatment options throughout the state.
Division of Community Corrections (DCC) staff with the newest "Nalox-Zone Box" that was recently installed at the E. Johnson St. Office in Madison. The box was installed in the entry way in effort to support anonymit and focus on the lifesaving impact that adminstering naloxone can have on the clients Wisconsin DOC serves. | | | | | 5/20/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Leaders from Madison College and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) honored graduates at the Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility (RYOCF) on Friday, May 20. The honorees included the first group of students in DOC care to earn a Technical Diploma through Madison College's Second Chance Pell Grant program. The 12 students who participated in that program earned their Small Business Entrepreneurship diplomas while at RYOCF. “These young men come from highly diverse backgrounds, but they all have one thing in common," said Dr. Jack Daniels III, president of Madison College. “They are looking for positive change in their lives and the college's Second Chance Pell Grant program is helping them achieve that." While the dozen graduates represent the first group of people in DOC care to take part in Second Chance Pell through Madison College, the college is expanding the program and will have a projected enrollment of 60 students across six DOC facilities in the fall. Wisconsin DOC also partners with Milwaukee Area Technical College to offer Second Chance Pell grants to people in the agency's care. “I'm proud of our agency's collaboration with the state's technical colleges to make these opportunities available to those in our care," said RYOCF Warden Je'Leslie Taylor. “I'm also proud of the students honored today. It takes partnerships and resources, but it came down to each of these young men setting goals for themselves." The ceremony also honored a group of young men at RYOCF who earned their High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED). “It feels really good. I didn't think I could do. The teachers will tell you I used to want to give up, and they always pushed me to better myself and to keep going," said Junior Moreno, one of the HSED honorees. Moreno said he earned the diploma for himself and for his son. “Just so I could show him a better way. I don't want him to have to come up and do the same things that I did," he added. Madison College was among a new group of schools included in the U.S. Department of Education's expansion of the Second Chance Pell Experimental Sites Initiative in 2020. The initiative provides need-based Pell grants to people in state and federal prisons. The U.S. Department of Education announced last month that more colleges are being added to this initiative, bringing the total number of schools able to participate in the Second Chance Pell Experiment to 200 nationwide. | | | | | 5/27/2022 | | (NEW LISBON, Wis.) — Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Deputy Secretary Jared Hoy joined representatives from Western Technical College recently, to recognize a group of men at New Lisbon Correctional Institution (NLCI) who have completed their training in the facility's Electro-Mechanical Mobile Training Lab. “I used to feel, as many of the guys here may feel, I was sentenced to rot, away from my loved ones," said Anthony, one of the student speakers at NLCI's May 23 graduation ceremony. “I have come to realize that fate had a plan for me and all of us. Our mistakes and poor decisions led us here, but it has been a great opportunity in disguise. If we hadn't had our worst days, we wouldn't have been in this position to rebuild our lives." The Electro-Mechanical students earned a certificate of completion from Western Technical College, which supplies the instruction and curriculum for the mobile training lab. Their recognition was part of a larger graduation ceremony, NLCI's first graduation event since August of 2018. Other people in DOC care at NLCI were honored at the ceremony for completing their High School Equivalency Diploma, or completing their Computer Literacy Certificate, Customer Service Certificate, Bakery Production course, or Woods: Carpentry and Framing course. “Knowledge is indeed power. With the practical skills, training and instruction we have received, each of us is better prepared and empowered to succeed and prosper in our future lives as members of the greater community," said Richard, another of the student speakers. Three groups have completed training in the Electro-Mechanical Mobile Training Lab since it arrived at NLCI, with a fourth group currently learning in the Lab. Western Technical College said its collaboration with DOC is focused on the Electro-Mechanical field because there is a need for these workers in Wisconsin. “Electro-Mechanical is very hands-on. It's also very high-demand. In Western's district, there's over 200 jobs annually that are available. Those starting wages are between $50,000-$60,000 a year. Individuals can earn up to $100,000 once they've been in the industry a while. So, the need is there from our employers," said Dean Josh Gamer in Western Technical College's Integrated Technology Division, adding that the college tries to act as a conduit to connect those releasing from DOC with Electro-Mechanical training to potential employers. “Here's the support on the front end, to get you through the program," Dean Gamer explained. “And when you're read to try and do this as a career, we have employers that want to meet you, because there is huge demand and there are employers who are willing to say, 'We definitely believe in second chances.'" “I was on a road to nowhere," Anthony told those attending the ceremony. “Now, we all have a brighter future to look forward to. After release, we have the chance to get great jobs in a field that is high demand."
| | | | | 6/14/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections recently welcomed Tifene Brown as the Department's first-ever Equity and Inclusion Chief. Brown will serve as the Department's chief program and policy advisor for equity and inclusion and workforce planning programs. Since the beginning of his Administration, Governor Evers has set Equity and Inclusion as a priority in the state. In his budget, Evers said, “A diverse, equitable, and inclusive government and society benefits all of us." During his most recent budget proposal, Evers asked for new chief equity officer positions to be created at the cabinet level for all state agencies. While the legislature did not approve this in the final budget, DOC made the decision to reallocate a position internally in order to create a new Equity and Inclusion Chief for the agency. We recently sat down with Tifene to get a sense of who she is and how she feels her role will assist in developing and implementing an organizational inclusion roadmap for the agency. Tifene said to accurately represent who she is today, she has to go back to her childhood. Her family was part of the great migration, where thousands of African-Americans fled the south and came to the Midwest in search of more opportunities and a better life. Her uncle left Mississippi to come to Racine, and it wasn't long after that her aunt and mother followed, making Wisconsin their home. This experience, according to Tifene, is a daily reminder of her “country-born, city-raised" roots. It has shaped every part of who she is today, from her southern hospitality as she waves hello to everyone she encounters or in her Midwest, down-to-earth demeanor. Tifene spent 12 years of her career as a Probation and Parole Agent with the Division of Community Corrections before transitioning into education, most recently working as the Director of Student Success at Alverno College in Milwaukee. When asked about how her career took form, Tifene talked about her time as an Agent. “At the time, I was simply looking for stable employment", said Tifene. “I am a mom and had a family. Having a good job and benefits was my priority." It wasn't until Tifene started working as an agent that she realized how the role supported many of her interests and strengths. “The more I learned my position, the more I started to enjoy it and realize I was exactly where I was meant to be. I've always been someone who connects easily with people, and being an agent allowed me to connect with others and help them in ways others may not be able to." Over the past several years, Tifene transitioned her skills into education. She began as an Admissions Counselor and worked her way up to the position of Director of Student Success. While this career change was a desirable move for Tifene, it did not come without its own set of challenges. “Early on as an Admission Counselor, I felt as though there was this unspoken expectation to represent everyone who was a minority. Ultimately I felt as if I was doing two jobs instead of having the recognition that we needed to do more work in this area and have better representation for our students." This experience, however, propelled Tifene into looking for solutions. “I'm the type of person that is always looking for how we can make something better, so I just got right into the, 'how can I resolve this or fix it' mode." While serving at Alverno College, Tifene focused on increasing retention of African American and underrepresented students by employing a Holistic Advising Framework. Tifene meaningfully contributed to the Equity and Inclusion goals of the college by supporting and advocating for students. Now Tifene is looking to take her experience and apply it to her role as Equity and Inclusion Chief in DOC. “While I'm new to the role, I am not new to this type of work", says Tifene. She is a Gallup certified Clifton Strengths coach, which is an assessment tool used to measure a person's talents and their patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving. Tifene states, “I hope to bring my skills as a coach into this current position and help people incorporate their strengths into their work. Part of my own strength is being able to shape the narrative around who people are and what they are good at. I don't look at people through a lens of weaknesses or deficits, instead I look at the whole person from a strength-based and positive approach and empower each person to be the best they can be." Tifene is also working on her Educational Doctoral Degree at Alverno College and hopes that she can use her education to assist her as she takes on this new role in DOC.
| | | | | 6/19/2022 | | (MILWAUKEE, Wis.) — Lt. Efrim Martin never expect Vanessa, his oldest child and only daughter, to follow in his footsteps and choose a career in corrections. “When she was younger, she had interest in being an attorney," he said after a shift earlier this week. “I changed my major a few different times," explained Vanessa. “I wasn't 100% sure of the path I wanted to go down and, to be honest with you, corrections just worked out. It wasn't anything planned." Efrim said it came as a surprise that she did have an interest, and the surprise got even better with her transferring to the same facility where he works. This Father's Day – Sunday, June 19 – marks six months since Vanessa transferred to Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility (MSDF), after more than a year at Taycheedah Correctional Institution. The 29-year-old Milwaukee native says she just wanted to work with her dad. “I knew that my dad was coming up on his retirement. We had talked and I wasn't really sure long he was going to go." “You raise your kids, you get them through school, and the different trials and tribulations in life. And it's something I never imagined, to be able to work with one of my kids," Efrim said. “There were a lot of emotions about it but, honestly, I feel like it was the best decision ever," added Vanessa. Lt. Martin has more than two decades experience at MSDF. He is the third shift lieutenant at the facility and Vanessa is a correctional officer on second shift. Though not on the same shift, their workdays sometimes overlap and they work together. “And to be able to see her in a work environment, which is something that a lot of parents don't get a chance to see. It is a different side of her, but it's a good side. I see a young lady who has matured, has work ethic and is able to articulate herself to PIOC and staff." And while he tries not to be a parent at work, Vanessa says he dad has offered advice to help her as she began both her career in corrections and at MSDF. “It helped me to prepare myself in the sense of what to expect; the hours and the environment." “I want to be able to give her as much knowledge as possible," Efrim added. “He has always had an open ear. And it's really helped my transition, honestly," Vanessa admits. Officer Vanessa Martin says she is currently working towards her Master's Degree at UW-Milwaukee, and that she hopes to someday move into a social worker position at MSDF. Lt. Efrim Martin started at MSDF in October of 2001. He says he does plan to retire sometime in the next three years, but has no firm plans on when he will leave DOC service.
| | | | | 6/23/2022 | | (PLYMOUTH, Wis.) — Devonte Jackson sat at a computer screen at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution (KMCI) on Tuesday and explained why the task he was working on may be the most important to ensure his future success “I want to learn as much as I can about the employment process, including interviewing, job research, and resume development, with the ultimate goal of a job before release," Jackson explained. “A job where I can continue to develop my skills in order to open up more opportunities." Opportunity is key for Jackson. He is 27 years old and a felon due to a guilty plea in a 2013 forgery case. He is also among the men in DOC care at KMCI who are using the institution's Job Center in hopes of finding a good job that can help set them up for success in the community. “Finding a job can be one of the largest obstacles for people leaving DOC care. They've been in prison, so they may have no recent work history, plus there is the stigma of having a criminal record and being recently incarcerated," Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Sec. Kevin Carr said at the Job Center on Tuesday. “We cannot wipe away that stigma, but we can give people in our care a head-start on their job search before they return home." DOC's Job Centers are a joint effort between the DOC and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD). They provide access and support to help people in DOC care create a Job Center of Wisconsin account that they can continue to use when they return home. They also use the Center to look for jobs, apply and interview. James McInnis, Education Director at KMCI, says one man who used the Job Center received a job offer while still at the facility in late May and began his employment within days of his release. “Wisconsin, like the rest of the Midwest and United States, is facing a worker quantity shortage," said DWD Secretary-designee Amy Pechacek. “We have, right now, about two open jobs for every job-seeker, so we have been coaching employers around the state that there are many talented, yet underutilized, pools of individuals, including folks who have been incarcerated, who are returning to the communities and can help fill their workforce needs." Secretary-designee Pechacek was one of several visitors who recently toured the Job Center, which is just one example of how the DOC, under the Evers Administration, is partnering with other agencies to strengthen a state workforce that needs more employees. Visitors also had the opportunity to tour KMCI's various vocational education classes, including welding, barbering and mechanical design. DOC partners with Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) to provide these opportunities to earn certification in various fields. “It's important for us because we serve the employers in our district, and we want to make sure that every population has the opportunity to help our employers find the talented workforce they need," said MPTC President Bonnie Baerwald. “We also realize that a lot of justice-involved populations are released at some point in time. So, we want to make sure they have the best opportunity that, once they are released, they don't come back. I'm very proud of the academic programming that we are able to offer here." “Every year, thousands of people leave Wisconsin DOC custody. Most will be looking for employment when they go home," said Sec. Carr. “With our partners we're giving them the skills to compete for a job and the tools to help them find a job before they leave us. It's a win for them and for the state's economy. DOC and DWD have worked to greatly expand the number of Job Centers at DOC institution under the Evers Administration, going from one in 2018 to 11 currently. The one at KMCI is the newest, having been in use just a couple of months. The KMCI Job Center has 12 work stations and is staffed by DWD employees. The institution prioritizes use of the Job Center for those within six months of their release date.
| | | | | 6/29/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Many take pride in Wisconsin's label as “America's Dairyland." With Wisconsin accounting for 14% of U.S milk production and producing a record number of 31.7 billion pounds of milk in 2021 according to the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, the impact of Wisconsin on the dairy industry is undeniable.
The impact of dairy can even be seen in the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC). DOC's Bureau of Correctional Enterprises (BCE) has many agricultural sites. Two farms near Oregon and Waupun & Fox Lake have a total of approximately 1,000 cows, with 550 to 600 milking cows at a given time. Each milking cow generally produces 90 pounds of milk per day, surpassing the national average by about 24 pounds or 35%, according to Wes Ray, director of BCE. None of the milk produced goes to waste either – any unprocessed milk is used to feed the calves. Part of how employees accurately track milk production is through a radio frequency ID ear tag on each cow. Employees utilize the software, DairyCOMP 305, to track the production lifecycle of a cow, every lactation, and the amount of milk produced during lactation. This allows staff to make data-informed decisions. But dairy isn't the only thing being produced at these farms. The self-sufficiency of the farms and dairy allows workers opportunities to learn skills, work on a team and receive some much-needed funds. Persons in DOC's Care from Oakhill Correctional Institution are employed at Oregon farm, and individuals from the John Burke Correctional Center are employed at the Waupun & Fox Lake farms and Waupun dairy. As members of these teams, they are provided training and work experience that help lead to success in prison and in the community upon re-entry. One BCE worker reflects on how working at Waupun dairy has set him up for success before he returns to the community. Starting work folding half-pint containers and moving to roles with more responsibility, he's managed to network and impress employers on the farm, stating, “I have jobs lined up once I get out. People I've met while here have already told me when this is over, you've got a job." According to BCE's outreach brochure, within three years after being released, 88% of former BCE workers are employed, and 71% have not returned to DOC custody. Additionally, Ray says when former BCE workers get out, they have generally $3,000 more in their accounts than non-BCE workers. This money helps workers pay restitution and provides a little financial cushion. “I think it gives people a little more room to make the decisions they ought to make," Ray shared. Through roles on the farm and at the dairy, BCE's mission of providing jobs and training for persons in DOC's care to enhance public safety and lead to long-term success has been highly impactful. Learn more about BCE's mission and benefits to those in DOC's care here. | | | | | 6/29/2022 | | (WAUPUN, Wis.) — Robert Alexander seemed calm and steady through the entire ceremony, including the speech he delivered on behalf of his fellow graduates. It wasn't until after the program, when he was asked by reporters about the rousing cheer he received from his family in attendance, that the emotions of the day caught up with him. “I spent a lot of my life not being what my mother knew that I was. So, to see the pride in her face… " Alexander said before choking up, then quickly composing himself. “Yeah, I was humbled. I'm tired of not making my momma proud, you know. Seeing her see me do something she knew I could do, it was too long coming." Alexander and eight others were honored at Waupun Correctional Institution this morning for their work to become just the second group of men to ever graduate from a four-year college baccalaureate program inside a DOC institution. “When I enrolled in the program, I expected to complete it, because I was entering into a commitment," Alexander explained. “Did I think coming to prison I would be a college graduate? No. I didn't think one of the things I would get out of prison was a college degree." The degree he and others earned is in Biblical Studies, with a minor in Psychology. It is offered through a partnership between the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC), Trinity International University and the Wisconsin Inmate Education Association (WIEA). Starting in 2017, DOC offered a small space at Waupun Correctional Institution where Trinty established an accredited branch campus. The university provides the staff, curriculum and degrees. The WIEA pays 100% of the tuition, leaving no costs for the students or the state. “Of course, I can talk all day about all the people, partnerships and resources it took to make this happen, but at the end of the day, it came down to the will and drive of our graduates," DOC Sec. Kevin Carr told the graduates during the ceremony. “To each of you, let me be among the first of many today, to say congratulations." “When we processed here a little while ago and I saw on the chairs the names and the word 'graduate', I realized that by the time you come up here, shake hands and go back, we need to change the labels on the chairs," said Trinity International University President, Dr. Nicholas Perrin. “Because no longer are you going to be graduates. You'll be Trinity alumni." “You can't have correction without having education. It's impossible," Alexander said after the ceremony. “For me, getting this education has allowed me to be far more prepared for freedom than I was before. I understand differently and I'm able to think far more critically." Alexander's release date is not till 2030, but he is already looking to the future. He says he hopes to earn a Master's Degree in Psychology and potentially pursue a career in substance abuse counseling, noting that, “A lot of the things I got into myself, drugs and alcohol were a catalyst." There are 29 people in DOC care currently enrolled in the program, including the nine graduates. Each was held to the same admissions standards Trinity International University applies to all students, including having at least a high school equivalency diploma. | | | | | 7/11/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis) — The National PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) Coordinator Working Group recently selected its Chair and Vice Chair for the next two years. The incoming officers are Chairperson Leigha Weber, who has served as the PREA Director for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) since 2018, and Vice Chair Jason Effman, Associate Commissioner and PREA Coordinator for the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. We recently spoke with them about the National PREA Coordinator Working Group, its work and goals for the future. First off, for those not familiar, what is the Prison Rape Elimination Act or PREA? Weber: PREA became federal law in 2003 after being passed with unanimous congressional support. The legislation requires confinement facilities – like prisons, jails, halfway houses, and youth detention – to establish policies and implement procedures that will eliminate sexual abuse and sexual harassment of people in our care. It's zero tolerance in practice – so that facilities are safer and people return to our communities healthier. And what is the National PREA Coordinator Working Group? Effman: We are a group of agency PREA coordinators/directors from states across the country focused on organizing communication on PREA issues while working with federal partners to identify meaningful ways to help prevent sexual abuse in confinement settings. The National PREA Coordinators Working Group was formed to facilitate collaboration amongst the agency-wide PREA Coordinators for the states and the United States Territories, and to serve as a collective voice for these Corrections Professionals on important policy and practice matters. How is it helpful to the agencies involved? Weber: The group facilitates collaboration among the state correctional agencies involved in reaching shared goals, including operationalization of the National PREA standards and, ultimately, prevention of sexual abuse. The group also serves as a collective voice in response to common and evolving challenges faced by PREA coordinators among state, county and private agencies. Effman: By working together, we help each other identify promising practices and innovative strategies. We also offer support to peers who are newer to this work. How long has this group been together? Weber: Just a few years. The Working Group came from discussions at the 2019 PREA Coordinators National Conference. Currently, Coordinators from nine states make up the PREA Working Group. In this relatively short amount of time, we've developed a strong working relationship with the PREA Resource Center (PRC), which has shown to be mutually valuable. For example, we've had the opportunity to offer our collective perspective and solutions on auditing issues created by the pandemic; review technology and tools for use in the field; and partner on conference planning. What other groups do you work with? Effman: We have ongoing communications with the U.S. Department of Justice, PREA Management Office (PMO) and other national subject matter experts in the field like Just Detention International and The Moss Group. We hope to cultivate a reciprocal partnership with the PMO in response to the development of best practices, as the PMO/PRC continue to refine protocols primarily around the audit process. Weber: We believe the experience of the members of the National PREA Coordinator Working Group is diverse, vast, meaningful and practical – all of which helps our partners develop strategies and solutions that have real-life value.
Leigha Weber has been with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections' PREA Office since 2014. She is a certified USDOJ PREA Auditor. Prior to joining Wisconsin DOC, she oversaw all major service delivery functions as the Director of Social Services for The Salvation Army of Dane County. She came to Madison from San Diego, where she was the Community Health Program Manager for the Transitional Case Management Program, a joint re-entry initiative of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and the University of California-San Diego. Jason Effman has been Associate Commissioner at the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision since 2013. He was certified by the USDOJ as a PREA Auditor in 2015. He has been with NYS DOCCS since 1999 where he started as an Assistant Counsel. He started working on policy and practice issues pertaining to sexual abuse and misconduct through litigation and regulatory compliance in 2003. Since 2005, he has been representing NYS DOCCS in national activities related to the implementation of PREA. He is also a member of the New York State Interagency LGBTQ Task Force, has served as a subject matter expert on projects with the National Institute of Corrections, and had the privilege of serving in an advisory capacity on the DOJ/PREA Resource Center project to develop the PREA Audit Instrument. | | Incoming officers Chairperson Leigha Weber (L), PREA Director for Wisconsin Department of Corrections and Vice Chair Jason Effman (R), Associate Commissioner and PREA Coordinator for New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. | | | 7/28/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — When Probation and Parole Agent Intern Stephanie Faudoa thinks about her summer internship with the Department of Corrections (DOC), she reflects on the impact of her mentor from the Division of Community Corrections (DCC). “My mentor and supervisor have allowed me to take my leadership skills to a new level," Faudoa states. “They have allowed me to become more knowledgeable in the legal system as well as helped me to not be afraid to challenge myself . . . they have taught me to lead with passion, dedication, and most importantly, hard work." This summer, Faudoa has gained a variety of experiences including effectively communicating with clients, reading and writing legal documents, conducting office visits, and learning how custodies are conducted. Faudoa is one of 15 interns working at the DOC this summer as part of the State of Wisconsin Student Diversity Internship Program (SWSDIP). Since its creation in 1974, the program has placed nearly 4,000 students in summer internship positions throughout the state. This year, more than 190 internship opportunities were offered throughout all state agencies. Candidates were selected out of a pool of over 850 qualified applicants. The opportunity provides students interested in public service with professional work experiences and a chance to dip their toes into the public sector. When Melany Lorge, Facility Manager Intern for the Bureau of Budget and Facility Management in the Division of Management Services (DMS) looks back on how her experience has been this summer, she thinks about the impact of her team, stating, “I think what surprised me the most is the amazing team that I've worked with during my time here so far. Everyone has been incredibly open to teaching and helping advance any goals that I might have for my time at the DOC. “On top of that, they are all genuine people, and it has been a pleasure to get to know everyone and work on their team. Their attitude toward their jobs has shown me what I am striving for in the future . . . Going forward, I know that I will compare a lot of my future jobs to the experience that I had here and know what work culture I operate the best in." For potential candidates thinking about applying to the program for next summer, both Lorge and Faudoa had insightful advice to give: “My advice for someone coming into the program next summer would be to not be afraid of change," states Faudoa. “There are many times in our lives that change is viewed as something that is scary. Although, the way I look at it is that change can actually be beautiful and it can push us to reach goals we never thought possible. It is through change that a person finds their true self and without change, people wouldn't know the wonders of their true potential." “My advice would be to really evaluate what you want out of the internship before you get started," states Lorge. “The people here really want to make this the best experience for you as possible, and they are willing to mentor in a variety of different ways! My boss has made it abundantly clear that I can choose to shadow any position that I am interested in. Try not to be intimidated by the size of the department overall. Having a large state department to work for, means that you have more resources and connections to explore!" To learn more or apply, visit the State of Wisconsin Student Diversity Internship Program website here. Individuals are encouraged to monitor this site early and often for the most up-to-date information. | | Interns Stephanie Faudoa (L) and Melany Lorge (R) are part of the State of Wisconsin Diversity Internship Program (SWSDIP) working at the Department of Corrections this summer. | | | 8/1/2022 | | (BEAVER DAM, Wis.) — The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) and Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) celebrated the results of a collaborative vocational education program last Thursday, July 28, on the College's Beaver Dam campus. Six men in DOC care at the minimum-security John C. Burke Correctional Center (JBCC) received their certificate of completion from a 12-week, 12-credit program offered by the College. The men received lab and classroom instruction at MPTC's Beaver Dam campus, learning how to perform basic welding processes, interpret blueprints, apply welding symbols and operate equipment. “Being able to learn the team-building, problem-solving and other commonly used skills in real world manufacturing and management roles is going to be a great tool for me in my future career path," said Jeremy Thompson. “I took the initiative to enroll in this program expecting a basic understanding of some welding processes, and I walked away with a reinforced understanding and ability to use advanced math and blueprint reading, as well as very thorough knowledge and skill of setting up and performing GMAW, which is known as MIG welding, and GTAW, which is known as TIG welding." All six men who started the training went on to complete the program. DOC worked with DWD Apprenticeship staff on getting this program approved as a certified Pre-Apprenticeship program. As a leader in apprenticeship, Wisconsin relies heavily on partnerships to develop high-quality, effective programs that address the state's workforce needs. This program helps participants develop new skills and prepare for Registered Apprenticeship opportunities. DOC also worked with the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW) to combine funding sources to enroll participants in this program. The students received a total of $2,850 through their work in the program and they will also receive a $100 completion bonus.
During his remarks, Sec. Kevin Carr thanked all the groups and people involved in the collaboration. “I can talk all day about all the people, partnerships and resources it took to reach this day, but at the end of the day, it came down to the will and drive of our graduates," Carr said during the completion ceremony. “You all set a goal, made a commitment and then worked hard to complete this program. You should be extremely proud of what you've accomplished." The students began their training in March and finished in June. More than 60% of persons in DOC care have five years or less left to serve on their sentence. DOC's mission includes providing opportunities and tools people will need to be successful when they return to the community.
| | | | | 8/22/2022 | | (PLYMOUTH, Wis.) — Enoch Arteaga had not seen his children in person for two years. The long stretch had nothing to do with living too far apart. His kids were a relatively short drive away. It also wasn't because he didn't want to see them. Their absence in his life was solely due to him being incarcerated. “This is something that we don't get. So, the moments I can get with them, it means more," Arteaga said while painting wooden cars with his children at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution (KMCI) earlier this month. “Especially seeing them grow, and having gaps where I don't see them, it's something incredibly special." Arteaga's kids were among the roughly 30 boys and girls participating in Camp Reunite, a week-long, trauma-informed summer camp serving youth ages 8-17 who have a parent currently incarcerated in the Wisconsin Correctional System. It is a partnership between Hometown Heroes, Inc., the Turning Rivers youth camping facility and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC). Camp Reunite included two trips to KMCI, where the kids had extended visits with their fathers. Hometown Heroes began offering Camp Reunite to the children of men incarcerated at KMCI in 2020. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, previous camps only offered father-child interactions through video visits. This summer marked the first time campers came in person. “It's been amazing. Three years coming," said Timothy Gessner, Corrections Program Supervisor at KMCI. “Virtual, virtual, virtual. And now to have them in person, seeing their faces light up. We went to camp yesterday and got to talk to the kids, and just seeing how excited they were to come to KMCI today, and then to see them embrace their dads was a pretty neat feeling." Children with an incarcerated parent often feel forgotten or left behind, and can struggle with feelings of anger, frustration, low self-esteem and motivation. Along with traditional recreational summer camp activities, Camp Reunite promotes mental health while providing hope, healing and resiliency through the strengthening of the connection between children and their incarcerated parent. Youth who attend the camp fill out surveys using a “Hope Scale" to measure the level of hope they feel at a point in time. Hometown Heroes says those surveys reveal that campers feel increased hope at the end of camp. And caregivers of the campers have noted a lasting resilience in the children after they attend Camp Reunite. “I think most importantly, (the experience) lets them know Dad's safe. He's okay." Arteaga explained. “And just lets them know that I'm here. I'm with them even if I'm separate from them. I still think about them all day." The visits to KMCI are less restrictive than normal visits to a secure correctional facility. They include both indoor and outdoor recreation areas inside the institution's fence, where the families can move about somewhat freely and enjoy activities like cornhole, frisbee, football, soccer, painting, board games, face painting and photo booths. “These visits are so much different than your normal in-person visits on a daily basis, so being able to interact at a more human level is huge," said KMCI Sgt. Kelsey Kemnitz “I think it kind of makes it feel a little less like prison. You still remember where you're at, while having this less-restricted visit where they can embrace more, and play these games and be outside doing actual physical activities – throwing the football around, things like that," Gessner added. “Some of these kids hadn't seen their dads for a long time. So, to open this up in this way, with this type of lack of restrictions, and activities and games and things to do, you can see it in their faces how much it impacts them. Just running up and embracing their dad when they came in, it was pretty powerful." Camp Reunite is a collaboration unique to Hometown Heroes and the Wisconsin DOC. The program started in 2018 at Taycheedah Correctional Institution (TCI), a part of the Wisconsin Women's Correctional System, as a week-long summer camp that explored ways to help kids cope with separation from their mother. Since then, a winter version of Camp Reunite was added at TCI, and the program was also expanded to a men's institution, KMCI, in 2020. Sgt. Kemnitz worked at TCI before transferring to KMCI, where she serves on the institution committee responsible for facilitating Camp Reunite. While noting it takes a large effort to pull off the extended visits, she believes the program has a positive impact on staff, as well as the parents and kids. “It literally takes an entire institution to make one day, two days, a week happen," Sgt. Kemnitz said. “It was amazing how many people started coming out of the woodworks who weren't even part of the committee or didn't previously have interest, and this last week said, 'Hey, what can I do to help?'" Part of this program is being able to join all the disciplinary teams and say, 'Hey, we're all still people. It doesn't matter if you're wearing gray or green and I'm wearing blue.'"
| | | | | 9/9/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Secretary Kevin Carr welcomed Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Randy Romanski Thursday for a tour of DOC's Bureau of Correctional Enterprises (BCE) agriculture facilities in Waupun. The two walked the grounds at BCE's Waupun Farm for a look at the operation there, including the facility's new transition barn, part of a $6 million facilities project. The barn, which has 260 stalls, was completed in 2021 and includes sand beds to improve cow comfort. This is part of BCE's continued efforts to promote a healthy and productive dairy herd. Across the U.S., the average milk cow produces 68 lbs. of milk per day. Cows at the Waupun Farm produce an average of 90 lbs. of milk per day. “A more-productive herd means more money for our operations," noted BCE Director Wes Ray, who led the tour. “We're almost entirely self-funded. So, the more money we make, the more we can re-invest in our facilities and the more people in DOC care we can offer jobs and training." The Waupun Farm, along with the Waupun Dairy where the milk is ultimately processed, are both staffed by BCE employees, as well as men in the custody of DOC at John C. Burke Correctional Center in Waupun. “It was great to have the Department of Corrections host a tour of the Waupun Farm and Dairy. These are impressive facilities," said DATCP Sec. Romanski. “There are a lot of needs in the workforce right now. With the programs DOC has in place, they are offering training that builds job skills for people in correctional facilities. This can provide an opportunity to hone their skillsets and possibly find employment when they return to the community." “This farm provides a tremendous opportunity for persons in our care to work in an environment that provides them with jobs skills that I believe are not only going to allow them to pursue a career in agriculture when they leave our care, but these will be transferrable to many other industries," added DOC Sec. Carr. In addition to the transition barn, the secretaries toured the farm's milking parlor and the hutches where calves were being fed. They also spoke with a few of the men working at the farm who are learning skills related to the agriculture industry, and soft skills applicable to many jobs.
“Working long hours, getting my body in shape … Also, patience in dealing with different people from different backgrounds, and operating different machinery. I've learned a lot here and I continue to learn every day," Anthony said. “Discipline, getting up in the morning, showing up for work, being part of a team, being on time for each assignment you have while you're here," added Bernie. After touring the Waupun Farm, Sec. Romanski toured BCE's Waupun Dairy, where the raw milk from the dairy herd is processed into skim milk, ice cream and sherbet. BCE is not allowed to compete with private businesses to sell these products to the general public. Instead, its primary customers are the Wisconsin DOC, Wisconsin Department of Health Services' facilities, and Minnesota Department of Corrections facilities. In fiscal year 2021, the dairy produced: 89,000 five-gallon containers of skim milk 350,000 cases of skim milk half-pints 18,000 cases of ice cream 7,000 cases of sherbet
For Sec. Carr, the job training and rehabilitative aspects of the operation are as important as the production of the herd and annual sales. He explains that BCE workers are re-incarcerated at a lower rate than comparable persons in DOC care who did not work for BCE. Data shows 75% of BCE workers have not returned to DOC custody three years after release. “Ninety-five percent of the persons in our care are going to return to our communities. That's just a fact. So, when they're in our care, we have every obligation to try and provide as many of those folks in our care as possible, with the skills, training and treatment to be successful when they leave us and not return to custody. That's the most cost-effective form of public safety." BCE workers apply for their jobs. They have to have a high school degree or equivalent, and they must maintain a clean discipline record to keep their jobs. The Waupun Farm, one of two farms managed by BCE, is approximately 1,650 acres. The primary crops - alfalfa, corn, soybeans, and wheat – are grown primarily for consumption by the Holstein dairy herd, which includes around 360 milk cows. Since 2017, BCE has earned annual, formal recognition from DATCP for producing high-quality milk and maintaining noteworthy farm conditions. | | | | | 11/9/2022 | | (RACINE, Wis.) – It is often difficult to find the proper channels and motivation to express creativity while incarcerated. Institutions offer classes and programs that allow those in DOC care to engage in learning opportunities, however, these resources can only go so far. One group of men at Racine Correctional Institution (RCI) has found a way to not only express themselves on paper, but to also share their truth with those around them. Prose & Cons is a creative writing group made up of persons in DOC care. The members of Prose & Cons often showcase their talents by performing spoken word and poetry at institution graduations and putting on their own productions at RCI. The men meet weekly in a group setting, often completing homework assignments and sharing pieces with one another. Many of the men involved in this group have at least some prior writing experience, but few have dabbled in spoken word. Through Prose & Cons, they enjoy the opportunity to share their work, to learn from each other and to be part of something bigger than just themselves. Pros & Cons' most recent performance took place at the end of October, as the men put on an original production titled A Matter of Time for institution staff and persons in DOC care. The production focused on the lifecycle of a person in DOC care from arrest to release, and in the final scene, showed how individuals can have a positive impact after release by reaching back out to those still incarcerated. After a successful opening night, the group wanted to give thanks to their fearless leader, Ms. Pritzlaff, who also serves as the librarian at RCI. They insisted that without Ms. Pritzlaff, none of their work would be possible. The members of Prose & Cons stuck around after the performance to talk more about the reason for their involvement with this group, as well as their motivation for writing and sharing their work with others. Can you talk about why you decided to join Prose & Cons? It's one of the few genuine outlets for self- expression that's not regulated in any type of way. Between ourselves, we are able to be authentic, we don't have to worry about judgement in any way shape or form or fashion. Also, as far as the structure of it, it's constructive because we all hold each other accountable for this production. We all had to make sure we were all here on time, make sure nobody was being sent to the hole. We had to put our egos to the side. That's why I'm involved with this group personally, because it's one of the positive things that is an outlet for self-expression. Prose & Cons came to me at a time where I had a lot of pain in my heart, a lot of grief, and I was going through a lot. And a lot of my poetry expresses that, after my loss… it's allowed me to express myself creatively and release that pain in a positive manner instead of holding it in and doing something destructive or hurting myself or hurting someone else. So it's given me that outlet and provided me with a stepping stone to elevate and progress in life, and I really appreciate having this. There's a truth that we all have that everybody knows. They can Google it, they can read it in a newspaper, see it on the news, but then there's the truth in us they don't know. Or a bettering of ourselves, like a reconciliation, a reformation, and that's the truth we're trying to work towards. The criminal part is the past. Creative expression is a way of retaining my sanity in an environment that is quite often insane. Not many times do you get to work with people of all different races, all different backgrounds, different ages, and this brings us all together. And I think I can call all these gentlemen my brothers. Prose & Cons for me is therapy. You know, when my mother passed away, I was in darkness, and it helped me navigate back towards the light. I love Prose & Cons because it's very therapeutic for me, and I, within myself, am a voice for the voiceless. I'm big on mental health, so for me just professing spoken word, I feel like it manifests good for humanity. For me, Prose & Cons comes with artistic expression and it's a representation of freedom. I've always been a huge fan of poetry and spoken work and I've always wanted to be a part of that, so this right here kind of gave me my wings to express that. It gives me a sense of purpose, you know. It gives me a chance to share my work, because I love writing and I always have. I learn so much from each and every one of these guys with their different styles and expressions and types of poetry, spoken word has been my opening, honestly. For me, it's like expressing the property of words. Hearing others' truths, where they come from, their backgrounds, expressing my background and where I come from, just coming together collectively to work with this group of guys. I'd work with you all any day, I appreciate all your hard work, and keep up the good work. Did any of you have experience with poetry or spoken word prior to joining Prose & Cons? I've written extensively. I write short stories and plays, I dabbled in writing little songs and stuff like that. But something like this? No. This is, even if you were able to attend one of our classes, this is a writer's group of talented men. We have homework assignments every week and we bring them to group the next week, it would blow you away the things that some of these gentlemen come up with in a week's time. This is a really talented group of gentlemen. I've been involved with this since 2018, and when I first joined, I was almost scared to get up and read my little stuff in front of them, because there's some really talented guys that come through here. But through their tutelage and being around them and pick little things up, I've grown as a writer, and I know it's the same for everybody else because I hear the progression in their craft. Before this class, I wrote back when I was younger, but I never really stuck with it. When I came here, it's like, it gives me an outlet and a voice to voice my opinions, especially with the things I'm dealing with and going through. It's given me that voice to share that in a positive manner because when you hold all of that in, it can manifest and you can either allow it to electrify, or allow it to deteriorate. For me, I started writing in February after I was sentenced. And I had to do it as a way to rebuild who I thought I was. The opposite of writing is reading, and when you read, you get to live a life of whatever it is you're reading. You could read one thousand lives. In writing, we get to write our lives, and everyone gets to read that too. We get to feel the healing from other members of group, the learning we get from everyone in group, I love this group, I do. I've been writing for a couple of years now, working on screenplay writing and short stories. I entered a few writing and poetry contests and stuff like that, so that's how I kind of got into it. I came to this prison and bumped into these guys and got into Prose and Cons, but poetry and creative writing has always been the backbone of my foundation while incarcerated, because in a lot of our situations, we've been incarcerated in these confined and condensed cells for years, especially during the pandemic, so when you write, that's a form of therapy. It takes your mind out of prison bars. I also love poetry because there are guys that have their own demons, they don't know how to express that. So when I get up here, I mostly represent or express poetry so I can be a voice for them so they can relate to that. There's a song called I Wrote My Way Out, and I feel that here, that's what we get an opportunity to do. We get a chance to write our way out. It really is an escape. We've been working on this production for 3-4 months now, but it seems like it went in like a couple weeks, because there's so much that goes into it, getting input from everybody. It constructs your time different, and you really don't have time to do anything else. The time just goes. Can you tell me about some of the challenges that come along with being part of this group? How do guys in this group challenge you, and how do you go on to challenge each other? I've never dealt with rap or other forms of poetry, I'm a Robert Frost person. But I can sit down now, and some of these gentlemen can testify, I can write a little bit of rap. I can be part of the group, and that's one thing that's allowing me to grow. I'm able to be a member of the community, and that's what I like." I'm still young, I got a little bit of a ways to go in life, thank God. But for me coming into this class, not only this environment being in prison, but I've always had a problem with speaking and other people's opinions about just what men go through on a day-to-day basis. It could be relationship, family problems, whatever, but this class made me more confident about myself and with that, seeing everybody uplift each other, I can actually help my family and be more supportive of them. So that was one thing that drove me down a little bit, but I'm actually starting to open up. It challenges me to stay focused because for me, if left on my own, I would be in the hole a lot if left to my own will and desire. So Prose and Cons helps me stay focused, it challenges me to be focused all the time. There are at least a couple incidents I wouldn't have let go if I didn't have this show to do. This actually challenges me to stay focused because I don't want to let my brothers down. I want to elaborate on not letting each other down. Coming into this, it was a lot of pressure for me. I came in on short notice, I didn't want to let these guys down and I appreciate these guys giving me a chance to come in here and articulate words and express it so other people can understand where I come from. As far as obstacles and things of that nature, there are a lot of things that people want to do within the DOC that kind of get stonewalled. But because this is a positive thing, through the course of time I've been involved with this, the DOC has permitted or advocated for us to do more and more. We perform twice a year at the graduations now, we recently shot a documentary, so there's a lot of things they've given us the leeway to do… And you can tell in the performance that this is genuine. Accountability has already been mentioned, but I think another element of this group is that we do challenge each other with feedback and ideas. That challenge is a good thing because when you come together, you suddenly discover that someone might have a different perspective than you do that is actually a valid perspective. Maybe I don't agree with what he said, but I can understand where he's coming from. When we share our poems in class and such, you'll find sometimes someone will say something that you never would have conceived of before, that has suddenly opened your world to something new. So I find that to be a really great challenge. For me personally, it was really hard for me to accept someone else's feedback and tell me that you should do this or you should do that, and pretty much tell you how to tell your own story. But taking everybody's stories and being able to mold them into something and create something, it's a beautiful thing and it was a challenge for us, for everybody to accept that criticism. It allowed us to communicate with each other and build that communication. For us, we've got to get our truth out there, and that's not easy. As men, we're taught to hide and to be undercover and whatnot. My very first time in class, I cried, and I've been brought to tears at other times. I've had other people come and ask me about me because they wanted to get to know me. So you've got to be honest and get it out there."
Opening for Act 1 Excerpt 1 from Prose & Cons Excerpt 2 from Prose & Cons Individual Piece - Prose & Cons
| | Prose and Cons Program from "A Matter of Time" | | | 11/17/2022 | | (MADISON, Wis.) — Matthew Reuter has been sober for more than a year, an accomplishment he admits he never thought would happen. Reuter, 34, says he started experimenting with substances at just 14 years old. By age 20, his substance use had worsened and he entered the criminal justice system. That's when he says everything began to go “downhill." Fast forward to September 2022. The Division of Community Corrections (DCC) held its first “180 Award" ceremony, where DCC clients on community supervision were recognized for their hard work and dedication to their recovery, and for making a complete 180 in their lives. Reuter was among the names called during the ceremony. He learned about his recognition when his Probation and Parole agent, Samantha Damijan, called him to deliver the good news. “She told me she had some cool and exciting news," says Reuter. “She shared the nomination and award ceremony information with me. It was really cool as I was also celebrating my graduation from the Dane County Drug Treatment Court Program." Dane County's Drug Treatment Court Program works to enhance public safety through the reduction of recidivism by coordinating effective and accountable treatment and supportive services for people with substance use disorders. Every participant is assessed and receives an individualized treatment plan. The Drug Court team works to help participants achieve the goals outlined in their treatment plan. In the nomination form, his agent noted, “Mr. Reuter has truly done a 180 in life, he started off on supervision struggling with employment, his sobriety, and having nowhere to live, he is now finishing the Drug Court Program, he has a home, a good job that he is successful in and is working on repairing his relationship with his daughter. Being a part of his journey has been so exciting for me and everyone else who has gotten to work with him, and is so great to see what someone can do when they really set out to do the work and make the changes." Reuter's journey to get to this point was long and not without difficulty. “I was in and out of prison and jail all of the time and recognized that's no way to live. I had no freedom, not from a prison cell or my substance use." When Reuter was released from jail in October 2021, he immediately relapsed. “I used the first night out, and that was it. That was the end of my use. Something in me snapped and I knew that it was a life I no longer wanted, and I really started setting goals for myself." But Reuter recognized he couldn't do it alone, a practice reinforced in Drug Court. “I began reaching out. I learned reaching out and asking for help was okay, and I began talking and opening up about things … that has really helped me." When asked what this award means to him after such a long struggle with substance use, Reuter stated, “To me, the award celebrates the accomplishment of a goal... It's something that blows my mind. I never thought I would be sitting here in this position, even a year ago I would not believe I could have done this." The Award Ceremony was organized by DCC Clinical Supervisor Holly Stanelle and her Treatment Unit team. The Treatment Unit is the first of its kind in DCC, and helps to increase critical treatment and programming services to persons in the community on probation, parole and extended supervision. Stanelle noted the importance of this unit, stating, “With the pandemic, there has been an increase in substance use in the community, including those on community supervision. The opioid crisis has been particularly difficult and this initiative will allow our agency to tackle it head on." For Reuter, sobriety and treatment offers a glimpse into a now hopeful future for him and his family. “What I am looking forward to most in the future is getting my kid back, having her in my life and being involved in hers," he states. In all, thirty-one DCC clients on community supervision in Wisconsin were honored with “180 Awards." Each received a certificate, a copy of their nomination submission and a token medallion to celebrate. | | | | | 1/11/2023 | | (FOND DU LAC, Wis.) — The non-profit organization Camp Reunite partnered with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) on December 28 and 29, 2023 to host holiday events at Taycheedah and Kettle Moraine Correctional Institutions. Camp Reunite hosts both an annual Winter Camp and Summer Camp for children ages 8-17 who have a parent currently in DOC care. The trauma-informed camps provide a week of activities and events designed to help the children build bonds, coping skills and resiliency. For two days during the week-long camp Winter Camp, the children are able to join their parent at their assigned location for an extended visit and holiday celebrations. After the day ends, they take a bus back to camp for evening meals, movies and bonfires. This year, Camp Reunite's Winter Camp at Taycheedah Correctional Institution (TCI) offered parents and their kids two days of movies, crafts, games, and quiet time together in the facility's school building. It provided a shared holiday experience as Santa made an appearance to hand out gifts. The parents of the children had previously provided a list of each child's gift choices to Camp Reunite team members. Thanks to donations from Kapco's Kids 2 Kids, Camp Reunite was then able to provide their elf-like assistance to fully stock Santa's gift bag with presents. These two days of fun were also fully catered, which included a full lunch buffet, movie popcorn and frosted cookies. We had the opportunity to sit down with two of the participating mothers and their children to talk about what Camp Reunite means to them.
Ashley and Ariah
Interviewer: (To Ariah) What is your favorite part about today?
Ariah: Probably where we are right now. (Ariah was snuggled near Ashley during the interview.) Interviewer: What was your favorite activity from today? Ariah: The bus ride here! I got to talk to my friends and I got to sleep. Because I woke up at 6:15 this morning. I woke up to music. They play music in the morning. Interviewer: That's nice! How often do you get to come visit your mom? Ariah: This is the only time I usually get to visit. Ashley: She was able to attend the July one, also. So, this is her second Camp Reunite. Ariah: In the summer one, you get to go swimming. Interviewer: Wow! How about this week? What was your favorite present that you got today? Ariah: Headphones. (Ariah received a set of headphones with cat ears on top.) Ashley: Those were super cool. I need a pair of those for myself. Interviewer: What about you, Mom? What does this program mean to you? Ashley: This program means the world. Under the circumstances, this is the only time I'm actually able to see my daughter. This program has been able to open the door with me and my daughter with communication, and the love that we share between mother and child. I think that the biggest part, amidst the gifts and everything…it's very, very nice, but I do want to stress that having the relationship and the communication between me and my daughter has been the biggest gift of all. The biggest gift of all for me. Interviewer: So, it's not just about the holiday events today, but overall being able to bond with your daughter, and have a sense of normalcy today? Ashley: Absolutely. And…today, we get a little free rein. Even the difference between having a visit on site and having this, we have a lot of movement which is awesome. And a lot of entertainment for the children, more focused on the entertainment…which is amazing. Because honestly, she's never come to see me on the other side with visitation, but I can tell you right now this is way better. Ariah: Because then all you get to see is them through the glass. Ashley: In County (jail), yeah. Ariah: And you only play with you and your mom instead of other children, too. Interviewer: So, that is kind of a fun aspect. You get to play with everybody when these happen, right? Ariah: And you also get to make new friends. Ashley: Yep. Friends that are going through the same thing, right? Ariah: (Nods in agreement) Interviewer: That's great. How helpful is that, to be around kids who are going through the same thing? Ariah: I thought I was the only one who had that (referring to having a parent who is incarcerated.) But now I know that I'm not. Ashley: That's important. Interviewer: That's really good. Is there anything else either of you would like to add? Ashley: Anything I can do in my power to help here, and be able to donate my time, I would be happy to do that. Interviewer: Is it safe to say after you complete your time in the institution, this is a program you would love to volunteer for, or even help start more of these Camp weeks? Ashley: Absolutely. Being a supporter for the moms, being able to say I've been there, I'm thankful for the program, and I would just do anything to share the joy with other mothers here…getting the right education to the moms about this program is important, too. If we can create time where we can explain the program a little better, a little more fully about the situation, that would open up the opportunity to many other women and PIOCs (Persons In Our Care). Interviewer: Kind of get it more well known, not just maybe at Taycheedah, but at other institutions and facilities, as well? Ashley: Correct. And it gives you a big incentive ... I'm so happy. This program is wonderful. The people who do the camp … they're not just Camp Reunite, I understand that they have their own camp (Hometown Heroes). I appreciate the time, and they really bond with the children. (Talking to Ariah) And you got your hair braided by one of them last night? Which was so nice. Ariah: And we can go to the other cabin with the older girls, we can go over there. And I know the other counselors…I basically know every counselor. Ashley: That's good! And you're able to talk to them and everything? Ariah: Yeah. We can talk to them. Interviewer: (To Ariah) What's your favorite part about staying overnight at the camp? Ariah: Probably that we get to run around, and we get to watch movies…and we get to see the other girls and play with them, too.
Viviana and Nathan
Interviewer: (To Nathan) How are you feeling about today? Nathan: I like it. I like that I get to see my mom. Interviewer: What do you and your mom like to do together during the holidays? Viviana: Cook and eat, watch movies… Nathan: Play video games. Interviewer: You're doing a lot of that here today it looks like! What's your favorite part of today with your mom? Nathan: Probably getting to see her and do stuff with her. Interviewer: What's been your favorite activity to do with your mom today? Nathan: Probably making this calendar (one of the many craft projects offered during the event.) Interviewer: How about you, Viviana? Viviana: My favorite part is going to be opening presents. It's been a lot of fun so far. Interviewer: Is there anything you could tell us about the program and what it means to you? Viviana: We're really thankful that this is even a thing. I know that not a lot of other facilities get to do something like this. And I know for the people that have a lot of time away from the family, it's really hard to stay connected and to really keep that bond. So, we get to spend a lot of quality time today. It's really fantastic. Interviewer: Is this a type of program you'd like to see expanding into other institutions if possible? Viviana: Absolutely. It's really important for mothers and fathers both to remember that children are our priority. A lot of the time, regardless of the mistakes and the bad choices we made, we can always turn everything around for them. For the first year that I was here, I didn't really get to see Nathan a lot. So as time went on…as your day-to-day life goes on here, it's hard to remember how it feels to be a mom. So, I feel like this program is really amazing because it really helps us to still focus, and stay connected. It's really important to stay connected. Interviewer: That connection is important. Viviana: Yes. And I really like that this program focuses on trauma and a lot of things like that. There's a lot of things that our kids don't realize that we're all going through, and we have the opportunity here to talk to them, and really bring these things to light. We can say to them, “our lives here aren't so easy." But today is a really different ambiance. We feel more human today than other days. It's really good for us to remember. It definitely helps you to stay motivated, as well. To learn more about Camp Reunite and how you can help these programs grow, please visit www.campreunite.org. | | | | | 1/30/2023 | | (IRMA, Wis.) — Governor Tony Evers recently visited the state’s juvenile correctional facility, where he was able to meet with some of the youth currently in state care there. Gov. Evers’ latest visit to Lincoln Hills School/Copper Lake School (LHS/CLS), in Irma, also included an update on current efforts underway at the schools, including: - Implementation of a Behavior Motivation System that launched in the Fall of ’22
- Ongoing efforts to recruit and boost staffing
- Efforts related to staff wellness and critical incident review
The Governor spent some time with youth, both in living units and a school classroom, and he dropped in on a staff training session. “We’re very proud of the efforts you’re making here,” Gov. Evers told the training group. “Keep up the good work.” LHS/CLS was the subject of an FBI raid, lawsuits, and allegations of unsafe conditions for both staff and youth under the previous administration. Since taking office, the Evers Administration has led a transformation at LHS/CLS from a facility with a punitive approach to one focused on treatment and rehabilitation of youth. A lawsuit over those prior conditions led to a court-appointed monitor being assigned to produce quarterly reports on conditions at the schools. Under the Evers Administration, Wisconsin DOC has gained partial or substantial compliance in all areas the Monitor is required to observe. “Every positive improvement we’ve been able to make here is due to the team at LHS/CLS and leadership in the Division of Juvenile Corrections,” Sec. Kevin Carr remarked to Gov. Evers at the conclusion of the tour. DOC intends to implement the same model of care at a new youth facility in Milwaukee. Plans for the proposed north Milwaukee site recently won approval from the City. Available evidence points to a smaller facility, closer to the homes of many youth currently in DOC care, being better for young people involved in the criminal justice system. | | | | | 3/15/2023 | |
When you first walk through the entrance at Stanley Correctional Institution (SCI), you may not think about the hard work that went into the facility becoming fully operational on January 1st, 2003. The path to the facility's completion included a series of hurdles over several-years, partially due to the facility being privately built and subsequently needing to be purchased by the Department of Corrections. The scheduled 18-month building project also took almost five years to complete. Thanks to patience and support from the City of Stanley and hard work from Department of Corrections staff, construction of Stanley Correctional was completed, and it has become a successful correctional and rehabilitation facility. Today, SCI and its staff not only care for more than 1,500 people, but the facility has also added infrastructure and stability to a growing area. Staff continue to go above and beyond to ensure the facility upholds its values as a place where residents focus not only on their success, but also giving back to their community. On March 1, SCI hosted a 20-year anniversary celebration to honor its achievements. Former and current staff, including Stanley's first Field Superintendent Paul Smith, as well as City of Stanley Mayor Al Haas and former State Senator Dave Zien, were in attendance. Warden Chris Buesgen spoke to the audience about Stanley's accomplishments over the years, which includes an emphasis on the institution's community enrichment. Guest speakers, including former SCI Warden and current Waupun Correctional Warden Randall “Randy" Hepp, reiterated the team goals to offer individualized, community-based opportunities for persons in DOC care and the early steps taken to make these goals a reality. “This is such a different place than it was in 2003," said Warden Hepp to the ceremony guests. “And it's because of the work that everybody has done, and it's been because of perseverance and resilience." During the event, guests were invited to view twenty years of progress firsthand through guided tours. Areas of interest included a live look at the institution's current work with Can Do Canines, a community group that helps persons in DOC care at SCI learn how to train dogs to assist individuals with disabilities. Guests also viewed the Veteran's Wing, where eligible residents are able to participate in Veteran's Day celebrations and Veteran organizations throughout Wisconsin. Throughout the buildings, guests were able to see some of the workshop projects created by men at the facility, including paintings, woodworking and metal signs. Guests were even treated to a delicious cake and fun trivia, such as which Governor's wife accidentally locked herself in a cell once during a tour. (Answer: Mrs. Sue Ann Thompson.)
| | | | | 4/13/2023 | | (PLYMOUTH, Wis.) — On March 31, 2023, President Joe Biden proclaimed April 2023 as Second Chance Month. This is a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of ensuring the safe and successful reentry of more than 640,000 people returning to their communities after incarceration each year in America. Throughout the month of April, we all recommit to helping people with the new beginnings they have earned, and building a safer and more just society. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) believes second chances are crucial, however, they are often hard to come by for those releasing from prison. A criminal record can prevent people from securing a family-supporting job, a place to live, the chance to go back to school, and much more. In addition, it's been proven that joblessness is one of the top factors when it comes to predicting recidivism. This is why we need resources like the Job Center at Kettle Moraine Correctional Institution (KMCI), which helps provide those in DOC care with the skills and knowledge they need to get a job in a high-demand field, and oftentimes, it helps them find a job before they step foot outside of the institution. KMCI's Job Center opened in March of 2022, and the staff there have already seen their fair share of successes. One of KMCI's most recent success stories, Ray Jones, a 31-year-old from Milwaukee, is set to take the next step in his second chance journey. Mr. Jones will release on Tuesday, April 11, and with the help of one of DOC's valued partners, LIUNA, he has a union career position lined up in road construction and paving that has a starting wage between $26-$28/hour. “Overall, the experience has been great," said Jones when asked about completing the Wisconsin Laborers' Apprenticeship Program. “In the beginning, I was reluctant [to come to the Job Center] but I went over my options and my situation, and it was obvious I needed a change, so I decided to come. I thought about my kids and my situation and re-entering the community, and I just said why not? What can I lose? This is going to help me provide for my family. That's the main thing I want." Jones had nothing but positive things to say about the people who helped him along the way, especially Maria Rodriguez, who is a Correctional Systems Career Coach for the Bay Area Workforce Development Board.
“Like I said, the opportunity has been great, working with Ms. Rodriguez. She's real genuine about helping people find job placements. And it's not only that she helps you find a job, she helps you find a career," stated Jones. “She goes above and beyond, she drills us, makes sure we're on top of it. It's not like she's only helping us find a job, she's bettering the individual for their future."
Though she's only been in this role since July of 2022, Ms. Rodriguez has already seen the impact of providing people with second chances, and she believes strongly in the work she's doing with those at KMCI's Job Center.
“I try to be as much of a mentor as I can to help the PIOCs here. I myself have ones close to me that have been incarcerated and who've had a rough time, and I have a lot of contacts out there and a lot of friends, and I thought if I have the opportunity to do this, why not? I want to help reduce the recidivism rate, that's the main goal, so that's why I took this job." Rodriguez also talked about the impact that her successes have on her, even when she leaves work. “It's amazing. I think about it when I leave work and on my drive home, it's what I have a passion doing," stated Rodriguez. “These guys deserve a second chance, and the guys who come to this Job Center and who are sincere about finding work, if I can help find them meaningful careers in any way, that's my goal. I tell all the guys when I do orientation that my goal is to get them a job before they leave this institution. I do anything and everything I can to give them the second chance they need and the second chance they deserve."
The Department of Corrections is proud to partner with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and regional Workforce Development Boards in creating and staffing Job Centers at 11 DOC facilities. The Job Centers help people like Jones leave prison with a family-supporting job.
“It's partnerships like this that go a long way toward reducing recidivism and helping folks receive a strong second chance," said DOC's Reentry Director Ray Woodruff. “This is only one example of many collaborative efforts that are ongoing throughout the agency and the state, and we want to thank all of our partners that lend a hand in giving those in need a proper second chance."
| | | | | 5/25/2023 | | “Let your achievements today serve as a testament to your abilities and a reminder that you are capable of greatness." The words of Michael Lozano, Correctional Education Coordinator at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) helped kick off a celebration of five special students Monday. They wore gowns and tasseled caps, and had completed their studies at MATC like many others before them. However, these five men completed their work while incarcerated. “Your past mistakes, whatever they may have been, do not define you," MATC instructor David Lunz reminded the men, the latest cohort of people in Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) care to complete Welding Fundamentals certification through MATC. All five men honored at the ceremony are currently serving a sentence at Marshall Sherrer Correctional Center or Felmers Chaney Correctional Center in Milwaukee. Both centers are part of the Wisconsin Correctional Center System, a group of minimum-security facilities focused on preparing people in DOC care for safe and successful reintegration into the community by providing the resources necessary to make positive life changes. “These programs are key to sending people home for good. They are key to reducing recidivism," student speaker Mark Roberson noted in his remarks Monday. The completion ceremony was the result of just one partnership DOC has in place with the state's technical colleges to provide vocation and technical training to men and women incarcerated in Wisconsin. The training focuses on skills that are in high demand and pay good wages. Combined with a partnership through the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development to open Job Centers in DOC facilities, the technical education training has allowed some people in DOC care to return home with job offers in hand. “You will face obstacles and struggles, but when you do I hope you will look back on today and remember how far you have come, and feel the strength to continue on this path you've chosen," DOC Secretary Kevin Carr told the students. “If you keep recognizing opportunities and doing the work that comes with them, I believe you will keep taking positive steps as you have in your education, and you will continue to be successful and do great things." Under the Evers administration, DOC has expanded technical and traditional education opportunities in its correctional facilities. Monday's ceremony at MATC was part of a big week of graduations for DOC. Also on Monday, New Lisbon Correctional Institution hosted a graduation ceremony for men completing training in Career Technical Education and Adult Basic Education, as well as Pell Grant-funded studies. On Wednesday, a group of men from John Burke Correctional Center celebrated their completion of welding training through Moraine Park Technical College at the school's Beaver Dam campus.
| | | | | 7/13/2023 | | (OSHKOSH, Wis.) — Oshkosh is home to a number of dining options, but many people may not be aware of one particular restaurant serving delicious meals to guests each week. The New Beginnings restaurant, operated by a group of Persons in our Care within the Oshkosh Correctional Institution (OSCI), serves a variety of menu items to residents, staff and visitors alike. The restaurant offers daily specials as well as “to go" options for lunch and dinner. For those who prefer to dine in, the facility offers banquet space where staff and guests are provided table service. The restaurant doesn't just provide a tasty culinary experience, it also benefits those who are part of the operation. Thanks to the DOC's partnerships with Fox Valley Technical College's Culinary Arts program and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, the restaurant is currently run by 31 workers, including five apprentices and two journeymen (graduated apprentices). Participants learn how to handle a busy and stressful work environment while also focusing on teamwork and customer connections. Those completing the apprenticeship will receive a “Restaurant Cook Journeyman" certification, which offers a leg-up when applying for restaurant or catering employment in the community. The opportunity is not only appreciated by those in the kitchen, but by the guests who are able to have a face-to-face experience while enjoying a flavorful meal.
Though they were busy preparing lunches, three of the restaurant workers—James, Vidal and Jaron—took time to sit down with us to share their experiences with the program. What do you feel are some of the benefits of this program? James: “People can find themselves. They can find their talents that are hidden. I always liked to cook, even when I was on the streets. And that's what motivated me to come to the program, to want to do the program. And there's a lot of individuals who don't know their talents until they work in here, and they find their talents, and the idea goes on." Vidal: “I would like to encourage people around here to enroll into the program. It's a good thing for everybody to do. The food is great … I just encourage people to learn and take the journey. I'm happy I did." Jaron: “This program means a lot to a lot of people, and some people don't get a chance to see that. We go through our ups and downs, our back and forths … It's also a chance to learn with that. The camaraderie around here, the teamwork, the dedication and the time that people put into it, I just feel like a lot of people appreciate it, and they should, and we appreciate what we do for the people here." How do you think this program will benefit you when your time here is complete? Vidal: “This program has taught me a lot. I come from not knowing how to cook at all to being decent, so hopefully I could be able to make that special person proud when I come home. Also take care of myself. I came a long way, I'm still learning. I decided to do the apprenticeship soon, so I'm looking forward to doing a lot of things." Jaron: “I feel like this program is going to give me the opportunity to excel out there in the world. As far as working in food productions, or any food preparations … whether it's a restaurant, whether it's a hotel, or any of those types of jobs … I feel like it'll give me a fighting chance to actually go into that field and be successful." James: “I want to go into catering when I do get out. So, the program itself gives you motivation to do so. It motivates a lot of individuals. There's a lot of good cooks, good chefs out there." What is your favorite meal to make or eat? Jaron: “I don't really have a favorite dish to make. My favorite to eat is the chicken parm. It is delicious. The chicken breast with the cheese on top, fried … You can't go wrong." James: “I like to do breads … And I'm a pork guy, I love pork." Vidal: “I found my niche in bacon. So honestly, I like doing bacon. And I'm an artist, so I like to express my artistic ability designing and decorating cakes, so that's my favorite thing about it." Senior Social Worker Tamara Boche also spoke with us prior to sitting down with her team in the banquet room. “I'm new to Oshkosh Correctional Institution and I love the training kitchen. It is really amazing. Their food is so good, they have a great variety, and they are so friendly and helpful every time you walk in the door. I'm really blessed." The DOC is grateful for our many partnerships throughout Wisconsin that allow for these opportunities. Our partners and staff involved with these programs help change lives each and every day.
| | | | | 11/17/2023 | | (STANLEY, Wis.) — Every November, Americans come together to recognize and thank Veterans who have protected our freedom through their military service. The Department of Corrections (DOC) joins in honoring these heroes who not only work alongside us, but who reside in our care. Brandon Drost, Corrections Program Supervisor (CPS) and U.S. Army Veteran, believed he could expand on the agency's efforts to recognize and support Veterans living in DOC facilities. With the help of his colleagues at Stanley Correctional Institution (SCI), he created the Veterans Wing, a residential unit designated for military members. SCI's Veterans Wing aims to provide resources and services to incarcerated Veterans. CPS Drost drew on his experiences to help build better foundations for those who served their country. He works with community organizations, higher education providers, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, to name a few, in order to offer targeted resources for the unit. This includes mental health and substance use disorder treatment, trauma-informed care, and even restorative justice efforts. While the pandemic delayed some of the progress towards reaching their goals, CPS Drost, SCI staff, and the residents are eager to get back on track. Four of the men currently living in the Veterans Wing – Todd, Calvin, Jeff, and Dilley – talked with us about their experiences in military service. Todd, Calvin, and Dilley all served in the U.S. Army, while Jeff served in the U.S. Navy. Todd spent three years as a Petroleum Supply Specialist. He is also one of the original members of the Veterans Wing, also known as (what else?) “The Dirty Dozen." Calvin was a Combat Medic for eight years, during which he was deployed for both combat and humanitarian tours. Dilley served for three years as a Combat Engineer. Jeff spent two-and-a-half years as an Electronics Technician. They also spoke about the benefits the Veterans Wing is providing them, and what they hope to achieve when they return to their communities.
What made you want to join the military? Calvin: “I just wanted to find my own way, you know, outside of the traditional … that's what sparked me joining the military. I fit in for a while until the medical portion became a bit heavy. Obviously, when you're subjected to certain experiences, it can be a bit much after a while." Dilley: “My dad. He was a Combat Engineer also. I feel like it was a great fit, but maybe not at the time I did it. I was a kid … [laughs] thinking about girls and stuff." What are some skills you learned during your time in the service that you brought with you here, or that you can take with you back into the community? Calvin: “I've used a plethora of skills. I learned a lot of administrative skills, of course my medical knowledge in regards to healthcare and trauma treatment, it's pretty vast. I was a Sergeant, so leadership and managerial skills … I'm a jack of all trades." Jeff: “A lot of the technical skills. I was an Electronics Technician." Dilley: “Maturity, patience, just being able to motivate yourself to keep going. To not give up." What's different about the Veterans Wing versus other wings? Jeff: “The people here are more courteous. They're kinder to each other. Here, I feel like I could go through my entire stint without any problems partly because of the Veterans Wing. It helped get me on the pathway for release." Todd: “It's a lot mellower. It's easier going, lighter. There's more maturity here." Calvin: “The conception of the wing itself was a great idea. Putting Veterans around other Veterans, it really helps to be around more likeminded individuals. It translates into less issues for the Veterans themselves." Dilley: “It's quiet. There's a little bit more respect. Obviously, talking to other Vets is not as hard. As soon as you talk to somebody who's a Vet, there's just that trust." What kinds of opportunities or activities have you been offered in the Veterans Wing that you may not have gotten in other units? Dilley: “Our fundraisers are probably the best thing about this wing. We've been raising money to give back to the community. We have them every couple of months. People can buy donuts or whatnot, and the profits go towards whomever we pick. We just had a fundraiser for a fallen police officer for their wife and children to pay the bills. That was pretty cool. CPS Drost gives us some ideas and then we pick it from there. We get things like donuts, cheesecake, ice cream … all types of stuff." Todd: “The Veterans Day activities. They brought horses in, therapy horses, that was pretty cool. We also have a resource room with books, benefits information. Some people use them … like if they have disabilities, that kind of stuff." Calvin: “… the amenities of the wing. We have research tools, like certain books or encyclopedias where we can research history … tools in the form of audio-visual equipment, things of that nature." Dilley: “… there's a guy that comes in from the V.A. in Minneapolis. He does meetings and stuff. He tries to help us with housing and health insurance. We also come up with meeting ideas that we want, and they'll have somebody come in. Mental health, homelessness, drug addiction, and then they'll have a meeting that we can attend. The mental health and probably housing are the most popular. And transportation once people get out of prison." Jeff: “The wing has been pretty decent overall for me. I got into the welding program, I just completed that. Right after that I got to start work camp, so I can't complain. I was able to make the most of this situation." What do you think you'll be able to take away from the Veteran's Wing when you're back in the community? Todd: “The resources, that will help, like if I need to get a place somewhere … probably a few people here I would still keep in contact here." Calvin: “The outside Veterans resources, the conjoined representatives from the V.A., that's helpful for everyone." What are some of the goals you are working towards when you return to the community? Todd: “Working on sobriety, keeping up with that. Getting a job … my family, being with them. Becoming a regular part of society again." Calvin: “My goal is to educate Veterans and other demographics in regards to some of the snares and pitfalls they may encounter coming into a system like this. I believe that a little proactive education could prevent the Veterans and other individuals from even coming into contact with systems like this. I'm studying law and Veterans' issues, that way I can educate Veterans and others." Dilley: “I'd like to go to college for mechanics. I've been thinking about mentoring kids. I go back through my life and think about the mistakes I've made, and I know it's because I didn't have anybody. I would like to be there for some kids who don't have anybody." What resources do you feel will help you be successful when you return to the community? Todd: “There's AA and other groups. There are a lot of resources in my county when I'll be back there." Calvin: “We have the privilege here in Wisconsin of having 1A trauma centers throughout the entire VA system. The VA system is the largest healthcare network in the country. We have dozens of VA clinics and hospitals in the state of Wisconsin which have specialty clinics specifically dedicated to treating the Veteran." Dilley: “I've had two P.O.s [Probation Agents] who were Vets. That helped a lot. The P.O. understands the issues at hand and can help us. If you put in the legwork, you're going to get some help. The help is out there, you just have to apply yourself. Sometimes that can be very stressful. A lot of us have a lot of mental health issues that don't really allow us to talk to a lot of people … ask for help." Do you have any other thoughts you would like to note about the Wing? Todd: “It's just nice to have it available to us. You know, being around other likeminded individuals, other Vets." Dilley: “We just have our own little community over here. It's really awesome, and I hope that every institution can do something like this." Jeff: “The wing has been a pocket of tranquility in this environment. The events are fun. I like the ceremony [Veterans Day ceremony]." And indeed, this year's ceremony was a great example of the camaraderie and respect throughout the Veterans Wing. On Friday, November 10, SCI residents and staff participated in a number of events, including Color Guard, the National Anthem, speakers, live music, and refreshments. The ceremony concluded with smiling faces and more ideas for next November.
The DOC is thankful for the staff and various community partners who help make these opportunities possible for Veterans. Are you interested in volunteering services or resources for the wing? Send an email to CPS Drost at Brandon.Drost@wisconsin.gov. Please visit wisc.jobs to view all of the available career opportunities at SCI and other DOC locations! | | Pictured (left to right): Todd, Jeff, Calvin, and Dilley in the Veterans Wing Resource Room | | | 10/1/2024 | | “I am in a community that believes in me. I am an entrepreneur. I am the CEO of my new life. I am defying the odds. I have already won just by being here. I will succeed.” The strong voices of Entrepreneurs In Training (EITs) echoed through the gymnasium at the Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center on May 23 as they celebrated a major accomplishment in their reentry efforts. After spending several months developing their career skills and creating business proposals in preparation for their future, the group of 24 women proudly donned caps and gowns to commemorate their graduation from the EIT Partnership Program.
University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension and the Defy Ventures organization facilitate this free opportunity for job readiness and personal development specifically for those who are or have been justice-involved. The correctional center promoted the collaborative training partnership by hosting a “cohort” wherein EIT alumni spoke to the aspiring women about their own experiences with the program. Those interested completed an application, which was reviewed by program staff. Once enrolled, participants continuously worked on the personal development and entrepreneurship components, including a commitment to attendance, completion of assignments, and dedication to support one another’s future business endeavors.
“One of the biggest things that have impacted me is doing this alongside other women,” said Showin’ Up Shawnda. It’s a practice of the EIT Program to use nicknames with its participants.
“The opening up, the vulnerability, the encouragement, the sharing of stories … I always considered myself an open-minded individual, but, I’ll tell you, you meet so many neat people,” she continued. “Maybe a little bit broken, but really willing to dig deep and figure out, you know, what they can do to flourish and branch out.”
Throughout the program, the EITs’ efforts were aided by volunteer coaches who provided feedback and guidance. These opportunities offered EITs chances to practice interview skills, develop their résumé, and discuss business ideas with experienced professionals.
After months of hard work, the EITs were ready to pitch their business ideas the morning before graduation. The pitch contest began with six panel groups. Each group was assigned a staff member or coach who scored each presentation. The highest scorers advanced to the final round.
Scoring was no easy task. Many of the participants prepared visual aids describing their business, including menu boards, artwork, and product samples. Several EITs also structured their business models to give back to others in their communities.
At the end of the contest, six finalists prevailed, winning a monetary donation toward their future businesses from the UW-Madison Division of Extension team and Defy Ventures. The first-place winner was announced at the graduation ceremony.
- Winning fifth place for a $100 prize was Calm Kari and her business, Karing Kabs, a transport service for senior citizens.
- Tying for fourth place was Nostalgic Nicole, winning $200 toward her probate services business, Lean On Me.
- Also tied in fourth place was Mindful Michelle, another $200 winner, for her mobile car-detailing business, Strong Finish/Mama’s Heroes.
- Winning both third place for $300 and an additional $100 as the EITs-selected winner was Showin’ Up Shawnda for her organic bath and body products line, Body Ambrosia.
- In second place for the $400 prize was Creative Kenna for Apricity Art Studio, a personalized tattoo and body art experience.
- And finally, the first place winner, and recipient of $500, was Edgy Erika for Jailbird Art. Edgy Erika not only creates stunning artwork from various materials, but she intends to help other justice-involved women create and sell their own pieces. Furthermore, Edgy Erika hopes her business could help correctional facilities offer opportunities for art classes and creative spaces.
The graduation ceremony highlighted the success stories to come. The center’s gymnasium filled to near-capacity with loved ones, DOC staff, and the EIT Partnership team. Graduates proudly walked the stage, shook hands, and received their certificates while beaming bright smiles.
Creative Kenna spoke on behalf of the EITs, noting not only the women’s accomplishments but their strength and resolve to improve their lives. On behalf of her fellow graduates, she expressed gratitude for the support they received from staff, their families, and one another.
Though only six EITs received monetary prizes, all graduates are able to take advantage of continuing partnership opportunities upon reentry. EITs finish the facility-based program with an updated résumé, a complete business idea, and new confidence in their skills and identity. Upon release, they are offered additional job coaching sessions, business support, and personal laptops. But the EIT Partnership is not only available to those who participate prior to reentry. It is open to anyone who is or has been justice-involved and wishes to start their own business. This group of EITs hopes the partnership continues to grow both within correctional facilities and the community.
“A lot of us when we’re coming in… we’re looking for ways to improve our lives through the prison experience,” said Creative Kenna. “And take away what we can from prison rather than what prison can take away from us.”
Currently, the EIT Partnership is available within the Racine Youthful Offender Correctional Facility, Redgranite Correctional Institution and the Robert E. Ellsworth Correctional Center. Since the fall of 2022, 51 have graduated from the in-custody programs. Several EIT businesses have launched in Wisconsin, including The Lunch Box in Black River Falls, Brightspace Cleaning in Reedsburg, Caine’s Clothing in Eau Claire, and Quality Care Preference in Milwaukee.
These opportunities are made possible by UW-Madison Division of Extension, Defy Ventures, UW-Madison Community Development Educator Diana Hammer, UW-Madison’s Prison Education Initiative, the American Family Institute for Corporate and Social Impact, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.
To learn more about enrollment, becoming a volunteer, or making a donation, please visit the Entrepreneur In Training Partnership website. | | | | | 11/26/2024 | | (OSHKOSH, Wis.) — Students in the Culinary Arts program at Oshkosh Correctional Institution (OSCI) this summer showcased their cooking skills in a tasty competition.
Inside the New Beginnings restaurant, apprentices and journeymen formed three teams to compete for the best variation of a macaroni and cheese dish. The restaurant not only offers delicious meals to residents, staff and visitors alike, but also serves as a valuable training ground for students enrolled in the Culinary Arts program.
“It's a great program," said Terrel Brooks, one of the competitors. “Even at other institutions, I always heard about it. When I got here, staff got me into the program very fast."
Four staff members served as judges and evaluated each dish based on its taste, appearance and creativity. “The macaroni cookoff is just something different for them. It's an opportunity to add a little flavor, put their own spin on things, make it their own," said Almon Pepper, Education Director at Oshkosh Correctional Institution. “I think sometimes, things get lost along the way about all the opportunities here, so they are really excited to show others what they can do."
Team 1 prepared a Cheddar Chipotle Mac & Cheese. This smoky and spicy dish was crafted from cheddar and gouda cheese, topped with crunchy homemade cornbread croutons, and garnished with fresh parsley and purple edible flowers from the institution's garden. The judges appreciated the delightful presentation of this dish.
Team 2 brought the ocean to Wisconsin with a Seafood Mac & Cheese. This creamy dish was loaded with a delicious blend of cheddar, white cheddar and pepper jack cheese, forkfuls of tender crabmeat and shrimp, a hint of cayenne pepper, topped with rosemary onion flavored breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh oregano from the garden. The judges noted this adventurous mix of seafood and comfort food.
Team 3 offered a bold Italian-Mexican Mac & Cheese. “Queso Con Amore" combined cheese with love, incorporating cheddar cheese, homemade Italian sausage and chorizo, onion, tomato and cilantro. For extra heat, this dish was topped with a stuffed habanero mac and cheese popper and drizzled with homemade avocado crema. The judges appreciated the complexity of this dish, along with the creativity of the recipe. In the end, teams 1 and 2 tied for the win, with team 3 falling just one point short. The competition was an enjoyable and uplifting experience for all participants, adding a little flavor to the usual menu with the chance to explore new culinary creations.
The one-year program, accredited by Fox Valley Technical College, prepares students to work in the food industry by learning how to prepare soups, meats, vegetables and desserts, as well as sauces, side dishes and salads. Students acquire the skills needed to effectively coordinate and oversee the work of kitchen staff — everything from menu planning and supply purchasing to the final presentation. Additionally, they learn to manage budgets and synchronize food preparation with service. Upon finishing the program, they receive a “Restaurant Cook Journeyman" certification from Fox Valley Technical College, along with a ServSafe Certification.
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