IMPACT GEORGIA MAGAZINE

Training Staff Adapt to Adversity While Continuing to Provide Exceptional Leadership

The Georgia Department of Corrections ( GDC ) sets the exceptional standard for staff training . Through the Office of Professional Development ( OPD ), which consists of Employee Education , Care and Custody , and Campus Operations , GDC staff are provided training , professional development , and educational opportunities throughout their careers . All opportunities for staff are developed through the Georgia Corrections Academy and the Leadership Development Unit and administered through OPD .

At the beginning of the pandemic , OPD was re-missioned to assist in training staff at state prisons , probation detention centers , transitional centers , GDC Headquarters , and GDC Fire Stations the proper method for sanitizing and decontamination . To date , OPD has assisted and trained every institution in chemical decontamination techniques .

As OPD shifted its mission back to classroom instruction , trainers have implemented sanitation processes , including classroom sanitation , six feet apart seating , temperature checks , and smaller class sizes . Each unit within OPD has continued to deliver in-classroom training throughout the regions while observing the GDC COVID-19 protocol and aligning with the Georgia Public Safety Training Center and Peace Officer Standards and Training Council .

The Office of Professional Development has educated employees and regained momentum while working through each training course ’ s changes . Thanks to our dedicated staff , we continue working toward our goal of American Correctional Association Accreditation throughout the state .

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