What beats a day at school? A day in jail!

No, not really, but some of our students were able to experience a day at the Beaver County Jail.

Social Studies teacher Mr. Greg Inge decided to take his Law and Order students to the jail to follow alongside the curriculum. Other high school students were also able to go, but his students had first priority.

Students had the choice of two options for days allowing more opportunity to attend. Some students attended April 20 and others went April 24.

While at the jail several correctional officers guided the students throughout the facility in a safe manner.

The group started out at the sheriff’s office and got to see where the criminals get booked. This is where mug shots and fingerprints are taken as well as confiscating materials and issuing inmates’ uniforms.

When issuing uniforms, the students learned that juveniles get pink uniforms, mentally ill inmates get red, and sexual offenders get green and white stripes.

Additionally, the students were able to see the cafeteria and learn where and what inmates can eat. The menus include such items as milk, cereal, water, juice, mashed potatoes, green beans, various frozen foods, and “mystery” meats.

The students also learned that, surprisingly, correctional officers don’t have any other weapons other than batons. The main purpose of this institution is for correctional purposes, so weapons are out of the question.

If an inmate was to try and escape or act up, an officer could only use their baton or riot shields to calm them down. After the incident, the inmate is required to get help to work towards improvement.

“That [seeing what to do in an inmate escape] was one of my favorite parts. It was interesting to hear officers don’t have guns and have to focus on correction,” said senior Delaney Young.

The students got to see where inmates slept and even got to see the female units.

One of the fan favorites from the trip was getting to see the control center. This is where the security cameras are monitored as well as buttons where inmates can directly speak with correctional officers. Additionally, this is where officers can see a view over the entire jail.

To finish the day, students got to learn about one of the games some inmates created to pass the time: “Hoodopoly” which is a twist on Monopoly with Uno and a deck of cards.

“[Visiting the jail] was definitely an experience that will live with me. I am glad that I went because it really opened my eyes to the realities of our justice system,” shared junior Sophia Hahn.