My opinion after viewing the film, "Glen Mills Gang: Arrested Without Locks and Bars," was that it was a valuable alternative to juvenile prisons. I thought that the recognition, acceptance, and encouragement was a useful way to promote a positive change in behavior and possibly instill a different way of thinking and believing in themselves they may have never been accustom to at home or in a traditional school.
Something I thought was interesting and what some for-profit companies have got away from, was the way the director of the Glen Mills School compensated his staff with homes, insurance, and additional comprehensive employment benefits for his employees.
In addition to the compensation to his staff, the ratio of staff to students allows the school to increase funding for student programs, educational equipment, and scholarships awarded to students after their time in Glen Mills. I believe that by utilizing other students to play an important leadership role to others, it allows for this lower ratio of staff to students.
References:
Glen Mills Gang: Arrested Without Locks and Bars: Films Media Group, 2000. Films On Demand.
Interesting posts this week! I appreciated that you provided some examples about how the Glen Mills system differs from other systems, particularly with staff compensation as well as examples of the scholarship. I would have liked to see more of this in the first part of the post, perhaps with examples from how the inmates at Glen Mills deal with conflict, or more details about the points earning system and peer accountability models they use as a way of building self-esteem. Also, at times it is difficult to tell which parts of the rubric you're addressing in your post as there are few labels or transition points in your posts to indicate the point you're addressing. Finally, remember that you need both parenthetical citations and end references. Otherwise, a good start!
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