JJC Broadens Education and Career Programs for New Jersey Youth

Offerings Include College Courses, HVACR Technician Certification, and Entrepreneurship Training.

MORRISTOWN, NJ - Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) unveiled an enhanced suite of post-secondary, career, and technical education programs, with a core mission to furnish youth under their guidance with tools and opportunities for lifelong success.

The prime highlights of this expansion include:

College courses and certificate programs in partnership with Mercer County Community College and Middlesex College.
Introducing a Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) technician certification program.
A course concentrating on instilling entrepreneurship skills, aptly named “CEO of Your New Life.”

For many juveniles under the JJC's care, the journey doesn't end with a high school diploma. Recognizing this, the JJC ensures its students have access to post-secondary education, career training, and vital job skills development - particularly those leading to college credits or industry certifications.

Attorney General Platkin reaffirmed New Jersey's commitment to its youth, noting, “In New Jersey, we believe in second chances and we recognize that all young people should have access to educational and career programs that help them achieve success in life."

JJC Executive Director Dr. Jennifer LeBaron emphasized a personalized approach, "These educational and career training programs are designed with new partners who share our vision for a transformed youth justice system."

Snapshot of New Initiatives:

College Courses and Certifications: In 2022, over 109 youths enrolled in 181 academic courses offered by the JJC, in association with local colleges. This program has now added seven vocational training courses, attracting 45 more students.
HVACR Certificate Program: Launched in the spring of 2023, the program provides a comprehensive 24-week training, tailored to meet each student's learning level. By September 2023, the inaugural four participants had completed their certifications, with eight more youths currently enrolled.
Entrepreneurship Training: Partnering with the national non-profit, Defy Ventures, the JJC’s program guides students through self-awareness to business ideation and pitching. The recent graduates, as of October 3, 2023, received a Certification of Entrepreneurship from the Drucker’s School of Management at Claremont Graduate University.
Digital Literacy and Graphic Design: A specialized course for around 50 students focuses on visual communication, offering them credits towards their high school diplomas upon completion.

Established in 1995, the JJC plays an instrumental role in New Jersey's youth justice system, ensuring the welfare and reform of court-involved youth. Their mission spans from offering rehabilitative services to youth in custody to aiding those on parole and further assisting at-risk youth through prevention and early intervention services.