NCJ Number
121568
Date Published
1989
Length
74 pages
Annotation
This evaluation of Virginia's Peninsula Marine Institute, Inc. (PMI), an adventure program for serious juvenile offenders, assesses compliance with contractual obligations, the program's role in the Peninsula juvenile justice system, and the program's cost effectiveness.
Abstract
PMI, operated under the Virginia Department of Corrections' contract with the Associated Marine Institutes, Inc., serves Newport News, Hampton, Williamsburg, Suffolk, York County, James City County, Gloucester County, and Isle of Wight County. PMI goals are to reduce or eliminate recidivism and increase academic and vocational skills. Goals are pursued by using experiential learning techniques and the precepts of "reality therapy." Juveniles have the opportunity to sail; swim; skin dive; scuba dive; navigate, operate, repair, and maintain boats; and learn first aid. Students advance through five stages, each of which requires a higher degree of discipline and responsibility. Students must earn a certain number of points to graduate. Evaluation included onsite visits, interviews, examination of student records, and an analysis of students' offense histories. PMI has been enrolling students since August 16, 1988. This evaluation covers the program's first year. The evaluation concludes that the program has met its basic contract requirements, continues to improve its administrative efficiency, has the support of juvenile justice professionals, and is less costly than commitment to a learning center. It is too early to determine its impact on recidivism. Continued funding is recommended. 6 tables, 11 footnotes.