Each year, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy has the opportunity to see local government in action. Last Friday, the class and SEF visited the Buzz Westfall Justice Center, touring parts of the jail as they learned about how the system works.

The St. Louis County jail provides secure custody and surveillance to incarcerated individuals through direct supervision. They are also responsible for the necessary guidance for individuals to improve their lives before re-entering the community.

The students had the opportunity to see the housing areas where detained adults and juveniles are being tried as adults await trial or are serving county sentences. They were able to ask lots of questions, learn more about what goes on inside, and the the role of corrections officers.

As they toured, the class learned the difference between prison and jail and the opportunities individuals can utilize for improvement. Detainees, for example, are provided with monitored tablets to communicate and access information.

They can access books and educational materials and read emails from family and friends. They can also be used to request public defenders and apply for training programs.

They can access books and educational material and read emails from family and friends. Developed in 2004, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy was established to bring unique experiences like these to students served by the Special School District who are interested in leadership. The program exposes the students to the institutions that make our community vital and effective in meeting the needs of its citizens.

Students looking to join the program can apply online and must be nominated by their teacher. Learn more about the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy and how to apply.