Corrections_Today_Fall_2025_Vol.87_No.3

field staff. They interpret and implement policy, mediate challenges, mentor new officers, and set the tone for professional conduct. In every circuit, every office, and every team, it is the frontline supervisor who most directly shapes the culture and performance of the unit. When a supervisor is well-trained and confident, their team operates more smoothly. Staff feel supported, standards are maintained, and morale is stronger. Supervisors who have the skills to navigate challenges, give meaningful feedback, and recognize excellence, contribute to a health ier and more productive workplace. They are also more likely to retain staff and foster long-term development, which directly ben efits the agency’s capacity and stability.

Photo courtesy Florida Department of Corrections

Furthermore, in an agency as large and diverse as ours, consistency isn’t just beneficial — it’s critical. We don’t just manage people; we shape outcomes. By training supervisors through a common framework and shared curriculum, we ensure that every employee — no matter their location — receives the same expectations, support, and level of accountability. This uniformity builds trust, promotes fairness, and reinforces our integ rity at every level of the organization. Equally important is the impact supervisors have on public safety. Community Corrections officers work on the front lines, guiding individuals who are striving to change their lives, find stability, and avoid incarcera tion. When supervisors lead with clarity, fairness, and a deep understanding of evidence-based practices, they don’t just support their teams — they shape safer com munities. Strong supervision improves both employee performance and the outcomes of those under our care. Finally, investing in our supervisors is more than a training initiative — it’s a leadership strategy. Many of today’s senior leaders started in the field, advanced into supervisory roles, and rose through the ranks. This training lays the foundation for the next generation of Circuit Administrators, Regional Directors, and even Assistant Secretaries. By equipping first-line supervisors with the skills to lead today, we’re preparing a leadership pipeline that’s ready to face tomorrow’s challenges with integrity, vision, and purpose.

Building on the foundational Leadership Training for Community Corrections Supervisors, two distinct spinoff trainings — Operational Training for Supervisors and Advanced Leadership Training — have recently been introduced. These additions are not only a testament to the Department’s investment in its leaders but also serve as a model that aligns closely with national correctional leadership strategies. Operational training for supervisors: A focus on practical excellence Operational Training for Supervisors was developed in direct response to a growing, undeniable need: pro bation supervisors must be equipped not just to lead people, but to run the business of a probation office. This 32-hour course is a game-changer. While our Leadership Training emphasizes communication, emotional intelli gence, and strategic thinking, Operational Training dives deep into the nuts and bolts — compliance, workflow, staffing, and supervisory mechanics. What sets this training apart? The facilitators. These aren’t outside trainers — they’re seasoned lead ers from within the Office of Community Corrections who have lived the challenges of field supervision in Florida. Their experience ensures every lesson is relevant, rooted in departmental policy, and immedi ately applicable. Topics include workload allocation,

Fall 2025 | Corrections Today

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