Corrections_Today_Fall_2025_Vol.87_No.3

TRAINING

emphasize the power of clear and respectful communi cation, especially in a field that often requires difficult conversations. Role-playing and scenario-based activities help participants practice these skills in a supportive environment, encouraging them to bring both profes sionalism and empathy into their daily interactions. Performance management is another core area of instruction. Supervisors are equipped with practical tools to evaluate, document, and guide employee perfor mance. They learn how to mentor and coach staff toward success, and how to address problems early and fairly. The goal is to foster consistency across the state — where every employee receives equitable treatment, clear expectations, and constructive support. As we often say, “What gets measured, gets managed — and what gets managed, improves.” The training also prepares supervisors to handle difficult personnel situations with professionalism and confidence, empowering them to act decisively and justly. Conflict resolution and ethical decision-making are equally central. Supervisors engage with real-world dilemmas and examine the far-reaching impact of their decisions. Through a structured framework rooted

in empathy, facts, and fairness, participants learn to approach conflict not as a disruption, but as an oppor tunity for resolution and growth. They are taught to separate personal bias from objective judgment and are encouraged to reflect deeply on their values, motivations, and responsibilities. These skills are essential in a field where choices influence careers, safety, and the lives of those we supervise. By the final day of training, the focus turns inward. Participants reflect on their leadership journey, assess their unique leadership style, and identify personal goals for growth. This closing phase reinforces a key truth: Leadership isn’t a title — it’s a mindset and a mission. It’s a time for connection, inspiration, and the reaffirma tion that great leadership is a lifelong commitment to learning, service, and purpose. Why it matters This training exists because frontline supervisors are the most important members of the management team in Community Corrections. They are the highest ranking leaders with daily, direct contact with our

Photo courtesy Florida Department of Corrections

Corrections Today | Fall 2025

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