TJJD News & Announcements

GIDDINGS, Texas – On June 28, 2017, TJJD hosted a Legislative Open House at the Giddings State School. About 40 guests converged on the campus to learn more about the work of TJJD and specifically about the Youth In Custody Practice Model and how it is being woven into facility operations. Guests were able to hear from the YICPM consultants, tour the facility, visit with youth and staff, and hear about how the YICPM will affect TJJD’s approach to serving youth in state facilities. It was a unique opportunity for Capitol office legislative staff and an elected official to see what the agency does, rather than simply hearing about it. Other guests included members of the Texas Juvenile Justice Board, a juvenile judge from Williamson County, the Independent Ombudsman, and representatives from partner agencies. Executive Director, David Reilly, said, “I believe that as more people ‘come and see,’ more will understand and fully support the work we do. This is in large part because guests ...

GIDDINGS, Texas – Giddings State School hosted its 2017 Victim Impact Panel (VIP) on Sunday, April 1st and Monday, April 2nd. The highly emotional gathering featured several crime victims and their families meeting with youth and staff at the facility. The event began with snacks and fellowship shared between VIP members, the Giddings youth student council, and Giddings State School staff. Aside from the many smiles shared between attendees, a wonderful program was held outdoors at the flagpole, which highlighted the true essence of the event. Giddings Superintendent Jorge Gonzalez declared April 2-9 Victim Impact Week and members of the student council shared their favorite quotes of healing and forgiveness. The event wrapped up with a balloon release in which youth, staff, and volunteers alike wrote messages of love, remembrance, and healing on their balloons in hopes of bringing a small measure of comfort to themselves and those around them. Monday was a day of sharing as VI...