Education & Programming

Youth at the Center attend school daily on their unit, following the Tucson Unified School District schedule. Classes run for 4 to 5 hours each day and cover core subjects such as math, English language arts, science, and social studies. Teachers rotate to give students exposure to different teaching styles and skill sets. The school program also includes current events and activities to explore life skills, such as mock job interviews. For youth aged 16 and older, a GED program is available to support their path toward graduation.

Youth at the Center have access to a variety of programming and recreational activities. Options include ping pong, card games, board games, bingo, and group favorites like Apples to Apples. They can also enjoy reading short stories, writing poetry, participating in arts and crafts, or joining a yoga session. These activities provide a positive outlet and help build important social and emotional skills.

Community organizations also periodically visit the Center to offer engaging and educational programs. The University of Arizona has led mock trial activities, while the Girl Scouts come in to teach valuable life skills. A theater group has provided acting sessions with props, and a music organization ran a “junk band” program using unconventional instruments. Health organizations visit to provide workshops on coping skills, trauma, substance abuse prevention, and reproductive health. The humane society has even brought in animals for youth to interact with.