C.I.T.Y. Program makes a difference
By Staff
The C.I.T.Y. Program of Franklin County is making a difference in the lives of troubled youths in our county.
The program is an alternative to sending away problem teens. The kids get to stay home with their family instead of being sent away because of their problems, Ramona Roberson, program coordinator, said.
All students are referred by the juvenile court system, and are on probation for one thing or another. The charges that landed the students on probation may range from truancy to assault, Roberson said.
Each student must sign a contract of good behavior. However, there are only three rules: no fighting, no drugs, and no weapons. The program takes a positive approach by rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. Using this system, behavior is not a problem, Roberson said.
"Each student gets points for good behavior, and can purchase items with their points from the Incentive Closet," Roberson said.
The closet is just one example of rewarding good behavior. There is also a Student of the Week and Student of the Month awards to encourage positive behavior and academic success, Roberson said.
"Students are picked by their academic achievements and the number of good behavior points," Roberson said.
The program is funded by the State, but is supported by both Russellville City Schools and Franklin County Schools. Russellville City provides the building and lunches for the program, and Franklin County School Board provides the bus and the bus driver for the program, Roberson said.
When a teen enters into the program, they are assessed to see where they are academically, and are given an individual academic plan for success. Students also receive individual, family and group canceling, according to program literature.
"Our goal is to either get them [the students] back into the regular school system, or a GED in order to go to college or training program or get a job," Roberson said.
C.I.T.Y. Programs can be found in 10 cities throughout Alabama. The Russellville Program opened its doors in October 1999, and has serviced 200 youth during that time. They currently employ two teachers, one teacher's aid, three counselors, on recreation coordinator, and an office manager.
