The primary purpose of the State Training School at Eldora is to provide a continuum of supervision and rehabilitation programs, which meet the needs of males adjudicated delinquent, in a manner consistent with public safety. These services and programs individualize treatment and control the offender for his own benefit and the protection of society. The facility provides a range of services that are geared toward:

  • Providing a structured treatment setting for males between the ages of 12 to 18;
  • Providing the most appropriate setting while protecting communities;
  • Developing individual care plans which provide a diversity of innovative and effective programs within the framework of professional correctional standards, legislative intent and available resources;
  • Providing a comprehensive education program for youth; and
  • Facilitating the transition of the young man back to his community.

The State Training School establishes policies and procedures in accordance with standards set forth by Performance-based Standards (PbS) and the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). 

PREA allegations of abuse at the State Training School are referred to the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) and criminal PREA allegations are referred to the Eldora Police Department for investigation as appropriate. Additionally, PREA related agency policies are available upon request.

More Information

  • For Administration, contact Mark Swore, Superintendent
  • For Clinical Services, contact Dr. Derek Hess, Interim Mental Health Authority
  • For Residential Treatment Services, contact Jason Halsey, Deputy Superintendent
  • For PREA information or reporting, contact Troy Kroeger, PREA Coordinator, or Jason Halsey, PREA Manager at prea.report@dhs.state.ia.us
  • For Business services, contact Chris Olson, Business Manager
  • For Educational services, contact Joel Weeks, Education Administrator
  • For Employment information, contact Kayla Taylor, HRA
  • For Mental Health Authority and questions, contact Dr. Derek Hess, Interim Mental Health Authority
  • For record requests and questions, contact Wendi Cockram, Clerk Specialist

Employment

Click here to apply for Youth Service Worker and other jobs at the State Training School.