Shuman Detention Center turns the corner under new leadership

PITTSBURGH — After years of turbulent leadership at Shuman Juvenile Detention Center, it seems as if the correctional facility has turned the tide after making major reforms.

It’s been nearly one full year since Earl F. Hill took over as the director of Shuman Juvenile Detention Center. Since then, major changes has been made in the facility’s approach when dealing with residents.

“It’s a new flavor and you feel it when you walk around here,” Hill said.

Hill, 70, earned his master’s degree in psychology and has over 45 years of experience in the profession. He has been working the Pittsburgh area since 1990. After receiving a call about the open position, Hill came out of retirement to fill in an interim role and later applied for the permanent job.

“I thought I still had a lot to offer,” he said.

Much of the changes at Shuman have taken place inside its classrooms, where residents have honed in on their favorite subjects. Aside from core subjects such as science, literature and social studies, the teachers at Shuman have found unique ways of engaging students.

T.J. Wenger is an art teacher at Shuman. His art class has become popular with Shuman residents. Like many of the teachers at Shuman, he digs deep to find creative, metaphoric art projects for residents to work on during their time.

“Most kids just want to be creative and have a different outlet,” Wegner said. “My job is to help them reach their individual artistic goal.”

Like many of his teachers, Hill believes that the key to continuing the success at Shuman is by keeping residents engaged with their surroundings in ways that entice learning. In order to keep residents engaged, he believes it’s about finding people who truly care about helping shape young lives.

“We are lucky to have people who have dedicated their lives for these individuals,” said Hill.

While there may be a culture shift inside the walls at Shuman, Hill fully admits that there is still work to be done before his correctional facility becomes what he believes it can be.

“Change is a process and process takes time,” Hill said. “Sometimes, I get anxious about us not being where I want us to be, but that’s a part of the process.”

Despite an accomplished 45-year career and one retirement behind him, Hill still feels that his there is room for growth, both for him individually and for his team.

“I think we’re going to save the best work until last,” Hill said. “When we walk out of here, we’re going to be really proud about what we accomplished here.”

WPXI