MAY 1, 2025
As this year’s commencement nears, the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice’s Division of Education anticipates the number of committed youth graduating from high school will continue to rise. Most recently, the agency has seen a 12% increase in its graduation rate. During the 2022-2023 academic year, 80.6% of eligible high school seniors in the agency’s direct care graduated. This went up to 90% during the 2023-2024 academic year.
DJJ provides educational opportunities for middle school, high school, and post-secondary students at the Yvonne B. Miller High School and Post-Secondary Programs at Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center. Offerings include an array of high school completion routes, such as an Advanced Studies Diploma, Standard Diploma, Applied Studies Diploma, or GED®. DJJ also offers apprenticeships and opportunities to earn certifications, credentials, certificates, and college credits for students interested in continuing their education after graduation.
The 2024-2025 school year began on July 15 with a return to in-person classroom learning. No instruction days have been canceled as a result of staffing, and there is a sufficient number of school security officers. Graduation for the Yvonne B. Miller High School Class of 2025 is scheduled to take place on June 6.
