Human Resources
Training
Juvenile Corrections Officer Training
In the first two weeks of employment, new Juvenile Correctional Officers (JCOs) have an opportunity to become acclimated to the culture and operations of our Juvenile Correctional Centers (JCCs). These first two weeks include an orientation to working in a JCC and the chance to observe the day to d ay interactions between staff and residents. The weeks are designed to help new employees gain a true sense of the rewards and challenges of working in the unique environment of a JCC.
Following the initial two-week period, new employees are enrolled in a four-week JCO academy program at our training facility in the Richmond area. During this period, new JCOs, along with others new to a JCC, engage in an in-depth study of the juvenile justice system; communicating with adolescents, particularly those with special needs; interacting with fellow staff; and how to handle emergency situations.
After graduation from the academy program, new officers return to their specific JCCs where they are given an opportunity to become fully integrated into the care and rehabilitation of troubled young people. Under the guidance of experienced officers, new officers have the opportunity to train on-the-job until they demonstrate the competencies required of a fully functioning officer.
Probation Officers
New probation officers (POs) receive a slightly different orientation to the Department. Reporting to Court Service Units (CSUs) across the Commonwealth, a PO's initial orientation provides him or her with significant opportunities to learn how to make decisions that will be appropriate for the specific young people who are brought to their attention. They may spend their first several weeks in their work units where they are exposed to their court system as well as various partnering agencies in their localities; a variety of legal and policy resources; and the policies and procedures in their CSU. Within the first 60 days of employment, they report to a week long PO academy program in the Richmond area. There they are exposed to more in-depth study of the juvenile justice system overall and the general laws, policies and procedures that govern the important work that they do. In addition, new POs have an opportunity to learn about the ethics associated with their work and to interact with experienced practitioners in the Richmond area.
Other Training
New managers and supervisors can enroll in a comprehensive supervisory training program. This is especially important for those who are new to supervision and/or new to the Commonwealth of Virginia. The competency-based program includes skills for self assessment, communicating with staff, performance management, and an introduction to human resource laws and policies that govern how we manage people in the workplace.
There are also a variety of training programs available for new support personnel, including comprehensive health services training, programs for maintenance and office staff, and specialized training for food service workers.
Once you have completed your initial training at DJJ, the Department offers a variety of open enrollment and in-service programs to help you develop and keep your personal and professional skills keen and current.