BEND, OR -- J Bar J Boys Ranch will break ground, next month, on a new vocational training facility for teens living at the Bend ranch, in custody of the Oregon Youth Authority. The program will be part of the on-site high school and will teach hands-on subjects like construction, small engine repair, robotics and technical design. 

Administrators hope it will reduce the rate in which the boys re-offend. Construction of the center will also expose teens to people working in the trades and help them learn about a variety of jobs. 

Earlier this month, Taylor NW demolished a shed (pictured) an cleared the area, in preparation for the new facility. An official groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for December 13 at 10 a.m.