The Intensive Supervision Program (ISP) is intended to divert high-risk youth from the state institutions of the TYC and redirect their lives through a program of close supervision and rehabilitation. Each ISP participant must have adequate supervision by parents or significant adults at home. After placement in the program by the courts, clients are contacted daily by a probation officer. This program is administered by juvenile probation officers and human service professionals who work with trained volunteers, student interns and community and civic groups. In 2005, an average of 504 juveniles received services in the ISP program each month.

The In-Home Services program for girls allowed some female probationers to remain at home with 24-hour supervision instead of going to a more costly residential facility. Their “Baby, Think It Over” program utilizing computerized infants is an excellent learning experience for girls.

The “Super Saturday” events demonstrate the flexibility and creativity of the ISP program. Probationers and parents meet with tutors, counselors and other service providers for special sessions and workshops.

The Enhanced Aftercare Intensive Supervision unit (IAP) provides intensive supervision for all youth leaving county institutions during the weeks following release from structured institutional life. In 2005, an average of 504 juveniles received services in the IAP program each month. Clients participated in Saturday programs, drug testing, electronic monitoring, parent-education workshops and Reality Orientation through Physical Experiences (ROPES) courses. Project 17 officers work to engage the older probationers in careers and prepare them for independent living. The Youthful Offenders Demonstration Project in collaboration with Houston Works also concentrates on educational and vocational training needed for permanent job placement.

Sex Offender Supervision is designed for youth adjudicated on sex offense charges that meet the state registration eligibility. Some may be adjudicated and placed back in their communities and have extensive counseling and other requirements. Others may be placed in the Sex Offender Treatment program at Burnet-Bayland.