The inaugural Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Focusing on Choices Understanding Success (FOCUS) Program received strong support from parents and guardians. Feedback shows that participants were engaged, felt safe and respected, developed positive relationships with officers and mentors, and left the program thinking more seriously about choices, consequences, and their futures.
We found that parents repeatedly identified the following as the most meaningful parts of FOCUS:
* Jail tour and exposure to the consequences of criminal behavior
* Guest speakers and mentors sharing real-life experiences
* Positive interaction with deputies and law enforcement personnel
* Physical activities and hands-on learning
* Structured environment and no-cell-phone policy
* Discussions about decision-making, accountability, and consequences
Parents stated:
“My son was up and ready to go to the class each day. This told me a lot about his interest in the program.”
“He woke up ready to go, and when he got home all he talked about was what y’all did that day and what y’all were going to do the next day.”
“Since taking the FOCUS class he thinks twice about doing dumb things.”
“I appreciate everyone who took part in FOCUS and I pray that you can continue to build onto this program.”
Another parent reported that her son talked about “never wanting to be sent to jail.”
A consistent theme was the positive way participants viewed FOCUS staff and officers.
“My child really loved the staff, and how nice they were. He felt safe, respected, and supported while taking the class.”
“My child felt safe in the program.”
“He said he wished it lasted longer.”
Parents recommended expanding future programming to include:
* A longer program or additional sessions
* Continued officer and mentor contact after graduation
* Periodic follow-up or refresher sessions
* More education regarding vaping, drugs, and fentanyl
* Additional instruction on self-control and impulsive decision-making
* Community service opportunities for youth
* More intensive interventions for higher-risk participants
Overall Parent Assessment
Parents overwhelmingly supported continuing and expanding FOCUS.
“It was an awesome program. My child loved it and it was an awesome experience that all kids should experience once in their life.”
“Hopefully this program will turn many troubled kids’ lives around. Praying that this program will only get better.”
“It was 56 days my son had missed of school last year for being in trouble NOW HIS WHOLE OUT LOOK AND PERSPECTIVE HAS CHANGED. #THANKGOD Im just so super proud of you Cayden, I love you son!!!”
Thank you to the parents and teens who participated in our F.O.C.U.S. Program. The positive feedback and honest assessments we received show that the program is making a meaningful impact. We appreciate your trust, participation, and support, and we look forward to making F.O.C.U.S. even better when we return next year.
#RobesonCounty
#focus
