From Staff in Daily Republic Journal

The Solano County Probation Department’s Juvenile Detention Facility in collaboration with the Solano County Office of Education will host a grand opening of the new construction trades classroom.

Probation Chief Chris Hansen and Superintendent of Schools Lisette Estrella-Henderson will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Juvenile Detention Facility, 740 Beck Ave.

The new classroom aims to reduce future recidivism through educational and vocational training opportunities that are applicable and marketable, according to a press release. The Juvenile Detention Facility and Office of Education have made significant strides over the past several years to bring education and real-world training opportunities for youth who are in custody.

A press release from the Solano County Office of Education stated the construction trades classroom will “continue that trajectory and provide youth with necessary training to equip them with skills that will enhance their employability in the community upon their release.”

“This program places emphasis on hands-on learning, career path exploration, and job skill development for our young people,” Estrella-Henderson said in the press release. “It is part of a system of supports to help incarcerated youth successfully transition out of custody with both academic and life skills that will enable them to grow and thrive as they move forward in a positive direction.”

The new classroom features eight workstations to include occupational safety, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, masonry, concrete, drywall, roof framing and woodworking. Upon completion of each workstation, a student will receive credit toward high school graduation as well as an opportunity to receive the National Center for Construction Education & Research Safety Certification.

The course is taught by Career Technical Education teacher Terrell Parr and classroom specialist Sabrina True and will offer students hands-on training that includes guest speakers from various trades.

For more information, contact Kelley Birch, Solano County Office of Education’s director of College and Career Readiness, at kbirch@solanocoe.net.