KDOC’s staff development team can be found in locations across Kansas, providing basic, annual and specialized training sessions.  From building on case management skills to teaching defensive tactics, the staff development team works closely with KDOC’s correctional officers, parole officers, community corrections probation officers, contract staff and drug and alcohol treatment providers in the community to ensure that everyone is properly equipped for any situation.  

One facility corrections counselor found her training particularly helpful. After participating in an EPICS (Effective Practices in Correctional Settings) class, she returned to her home facility, where she identified an at-risk inmate who was facing a possible facility change due to recent behaviors. The counselor had the inmate work through a R.A.C.E. (Recognize, Avoid, Cope, Evaluate) worksheet to identify the problematic situation and think through ways of avoiding or coping with the risky situation. As a result, the inmate’s behavior changed and he was able to better handle the potentially problematic situation. 

As the State of Kansas wraps up Correctional Officers and Employees Week, the KDOC also want to thank those individuals who help staff live up to their full potential throughout their corrections careers.

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