Program trains workers for criminal justice system

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Many people know the benefits of expanding their education. That's what five young people did when they heard about a unique program offered at Lethbridge Community College in Lethbridge, Alta.

The program, the Criminal Justice Certificate, was created in 1990 to meet the need for more Natives to work in the criminal justice system. It combines intensive upgrading assistance with regular law enforcement or corrections courses at a pace individualized to the student. Students may complete the certificate in up to two years, or the diploma program in up to three years.

Shawn Parenteau and Kewatin Conner, residents of Saskatchewan, believe the program is a positive step for Natives.

"The program helped me with leadership skills and straightened me out," says 20-year-old Conner, from Leask, Sask. "I want a good record when I join a police force."

Parenteau, of Prince Albert, agrees.

'The program taught me how to interact with others. It's a very competitive field so you must try as hard as possible," says Parenteau, 22. "It's good for both Native and Metis people to help them have some inspiration and create a good future for themselves."

Parenteau, a first-year student who was himself inspired to come to Lethbridge by another student, adds that the faculty in the program has made a big difference.

"The teaching staff in the program have a lot of practical experience that they share with us. It's very informative."

Conner, in his second year of the program, is also confident of his job prospects after graduation. A member of the LCC Kodiak cross-country running team, he finished sixth overall in the Alberta College's Athletic Conference this year.

Kimberley Big Swan, from the Peigan Band, believes the program has some big advantages.

"You get an inside look at the criminal justice system," says Big Swan, 20, a third-year student. "All the people you meet with become your friends."

Big Swan, who heard about the program from a Native officer, thinks it will have a great impact.

"I think the program is good for Natives who want to pursue a career in law enforcement because of the new detachments being established on the reserves."

Jody Lepine and James Berube, both residents of Fernie, believe the program's structure help them further their education.

"having the more difficult criminal justice courses stretched over two years, it allows more time for adjustment," says Lepine, 19, a first-year-student. He hopes to work with your offenders or in corrections after graduation.

Berube, 18, also a first-year student, agrees.

"The program's workload is challenging but it's easier to get started because the whole diploma is spread over three years instead of two."

Berube plans to further his education after graduation, but he believes his chances of getting a job have been enhanced by the program.

"There are a lot of jobs out there for Natives with an education in the criminal justice system," he says.

The Criminal Justice Certificate faculty have all worked in the field in law enforcement, security of corrections. They provide real world examples of problems and solutions and give students the benefit of their experience.

In 1993, the LCC Criminal Justice Certificate program received the program/service excellence award for innovative programming from the Association of Canadian Community Colleges.

Graduates of the Criminal Justice Certificate program may continue to earn their diploma after one year. Transfer agreements with Simon Fraser University in British Columbia and University College of Great Falls in Montana allow graduates of the LCC program to complete bachelor's degrees.

For more information, contact Ian Hepher, LCC Criminal Justice Certificate faculty, (403) 320-3369.