Community Experience- Jailhouse Rock

We single filed into the County Jail through the metal detector. The Officer that met us at the entrance of the Spanish Fork Correctional Facility was a kind gentleman with a gentile disposition. "You the BYU group?" We nodded our heads. "What class are you in for? “"In for" it was as if we were the ones going into the cells. "Multi-cultural Education." We realized how racist that seemed and decided collectively to say, "We're here for a secondary education class." That's better, sounds less racial profiling. I admit openly that what I saw during that tour disturbed me entirely. It opened my eyes to the life of prisoners and even the life of officers. It was a humbling experience in which I realized what freedom really is.

 Officer Amos mentioned that most of these convicts stay behind bars for 3-6 months depending on the severity of the crime. Most are in for drug usage and distribution. He said once you land in jail it starts the vicious cycle that turns into more of a life sentence. This makes me ponder for a second. My high school was known for its drug busts. Most of these convicts had been here since their teens. Officer Amos mentioned they wouldn't last long in the system. Eventually they'd O.D. How many of my classmates were in the jail now? What influence could I have been as their peer? What influence can I be to my future students? A freedom writer’s scene runs through my head where Hilary Swank is cussing out Mario for a paper he wrote. We continue on with the tour. 

When I thought prison I don't know why I never expected to see that ALL of someone’s rights and freedoms were taken away. We viewed these inmates like they were animals at a zoo. Each of them stared back. I was afraid if I made eye contact they'd be angry on how privileged I was. I grew up in a middle class loving family that had nurtured me into the woman I am today. I looked away quickly less they realize my privilege and feel even more ashamed. The younger ones act out more than the older ones. According to Officer Amos they have to make a name for themselves. This is a small community where they know each other well. They are each other’s families. 

 My political science professor said there are four reasons for jail: Rehabilitation, to deter behavior public safety and retribution. There were many rehabilitation programs in the jail. The inmates had opportunities to do various jobs for less than minimum pay. Sometimes it was the first job they had ever done in their lives. There were libraries and Sunday school. They could if they choose finish their high school diploma. It seemed all for naught because they couldn't get a job once they got out because of their criminal record. Which would lead them to do what they were doing before and back into the jailhouse. 

So as an educator I share  responsibility of  keeping my students out of such places. Though I realize circumstances differ, perhaps by my involvement in the children's extracurricular I could make a difference. With love and attention I could be apart of the support individuals need. I know I can't be that teacher to every student because some might not click with me for that kind of trust but I can work hard to see that my students get the best they can out of my classes by doing my best.