Performance-based Standards (PbS) is very pleased to announce Maricopa County Juvenile Detention Center- Durango in Phoenix, AZ as one of the finalists for the 2020 PbS Barbara Allen-Hagen Award in the detention category. Maricopa was selected as a finalist for their impressive plan to reduce confinement.nAfter noticing an increase in confinement in their PbS data, the leadership team worked together to develop strategies for facility-wide change. Focusing on positive youth development and stronger communication with staff, the facility has significantly reduced the use of confinement and strives to reduce it further.nWith an understanding that significant change would require a lot of training, communication and leadership involvement, the key interventions all included consulting with staff to ensure buy-in and a greater positive impact. The behavior management system was modified to include more mediation and conflict management as well as added incentives for positive behavior. To better meet the needs of the youth, staff continue to provide feedback as they implement changes to the behavior management system.nThe overall engagement has reduced the frequency and duration of confinement and has enhanced safety for youths. The team at Maricopa continues to improve their behavior management system by introducing more incentive-based programs for the youth, while also keeping an open line of communication with staff.nStay tuned for more blogs about the 2020 finalists.nThe PbS Barbara Allen-Hagen Award was established in 2007 to honor Barbara Allen-Hagen and her retirement from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). Her dedication to improving the quality of life in facilities for young offenders has helped drive PbS to its current success. The award is given to a correction, detention/assessment and community program who best exemplify PbS’ commitment to treating all youths as one of our own by developing and implementing strategic plans to change practices that results in positive outcomes for youths, staff and families.
