Last month, the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry (ADCRR) introduced a revamped training program at the Correctional Officer Training Academy (COTA) and proudly announced the graduation of the first class under these new standards. This development aims to address challenges related to safety and security within Arizona’s prison system by equipping new correctional officers with more comprehensive skills and training. As reported by the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry, after extensive redesign, the duration of the training course was expanded from seven to thirteen weeks, which includes both in-class training and practical, on-the-job experience with a Field Training Officer (FTO).
Emphasizing the need for a more evolved correctional officer role, the COTA's new curriculum sheds militaristic aspects and integrates modern elements such as trauma-informed care and correctional programming. Celebrating the first cohort's graduation on August 15, ADCRR released a video featuring a pair of officers from Class 1350 who underwent the modernized training. To amplify the reality of the training's impact, "The Department is sharing a video," which provides a glimpse into the graduates' experiences, available to view at the ADCRR link provided.
This transformation of COTA is no small part of the state's strategic plan to fill vacancies and promote a robust correctional environment. Having trained 534 officers this year alone, ADCRR currently has 287 cadets in training slated to join Arizona's correctional staff soon. Amidst this influx of new officers, "Safer prisons and safer communities start with the officers serving on the front lines," Director Ryan Thornell stated, as per the ADCRR.
