Appointed: March 14, 2005
Nebraska Dept of Correctional Services
P.O. Box 94661
Lincoln, NE 68509-4661
(402) 471-2654
Adult Parole
Staff Training
Education
Emergency Preparedness
Dog Training/Adoption
Health Services
Parenting Programs
Religious Services
About the FacilityThe Staff Training Academy is responsible for training all new employees hired to work for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The Academy also provides annual In-Service training, Contract Staff/Volunteer training, Office Professional training, Jail Officer training, Instructor courses, and provides support for a variety of Quality/Leadership courses.
The mission of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Staff Training Academy is to create and maintain a solid foundation of knowledge, skills and confidence by providing quality training and development opportunities for corrections professionals.
To Provide High-Quality, Meaningful Training
Value the Individual
Leadership
The Academy is located in northeast Lincoln on the grounds of the Whitehall Campus. Many visitors from outside the Lincoln area will travel via Interstate 80. From Interstate 80, take the 27th Street exit south to Cornhusker Hwy. Turn east (left) on Cornhusker and move into the far right lane. Continue east in the right lane and that lane will become Adams Street after a few blocks. Continue east on Adams to 56th Street. Turn south (right) on 56th Street and proceed six (6) blocks to Walker Avenue. Turn east (left) on Walker and proceed 1 1/2 blocks. The Academy is located in the "Whitehall School" building with a parking lot provided on the east side of the building.
For those not coming in from Interstate 80, there are many ways to get to the Academy site depending on the direction you are coming into Lincoln. The closest main intersection to the Academy is 56th and Leighton Avenue. Once you are at 56th and Leighton Avenue, you will travel one block north and one and one-half blocks east to the parking lot. We also have a street map available for printing.
During fiscal year 2011 - 2012, the Academy recorded the following attendance:
PRE-SERVICE |
361 |
IN-SERVICE |
1,133 |
QUALITY/LEADERSHIP |
130 |
INSTRUCTOR SCHOOLS |
71 |
SEASONAL RANGES |
689 |
OFFICE PROFESSIONAL |
49 |
JAIL STAFF |
22 |
FTO |
52 |
MID-MANAGER CHEMICAL AGENT |
88 |
|
|
The Pre-Service program is designed to provide new employees with the basic knowledge and skills needed to begin their career in corrections. Everyone hired to work as an employee for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, or as a contract provider, attends at least 102 hours of Academy training. Support employees with direct inmate contact receive a total of 124 hours of Academy training. Unit Caseworkers attend 140 hours of Academy training and Correctional Officers receive 164 hours of Academy instruction. The Academy also offers basic Jail Officer training that ranges from 63.5 hours to 93 hours.
The purpose of the Academy is to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitude to start their career in Corrections. Working in Corrections requires a certain type of individual that can learn procedures, follow directions, perform essential skills, and maintain a professional demeanor during times of high stress. Not all individuals are suited for work in this environment. It is the responsibility of the Academy staff to recognize inadequacies and attempt to correct them. If correction is not possible or the individual refuses the correction, termination of employment will occur.
The Department of Correctional Services provides motel accommodations for staff attending training if they are assigned to the Work Ethic Camp in McCook. (Motel accommodations require approval by the Warden/designee.) Students will normally check-in on Sunday and check-out before classes begin on the final training day of each week. Approval by the Warden/designee is required for any special motel arrival or departure arrangements that may be requested.
PRE-SERVICE CLASS DESCRIPTIONS/HOURS
The following courses are designed to prepare new, full-time, and part-time employees for work in a correctional environment by giving them the basic knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to assume their new positions.
DAY 1 (4 Hours)
The first day of Pre-Service is an orientation day for completion of personnel forms, IDs, uniform fitting, blood draw for a TB check, fingerprinting, and an overview of the Academy and the Pre-Service program. New employees will also complete an on-line defensive driving course that will prepare them for driving state vehicles.
INTRODUCTION TO STA (1 Hour)
This is the first hour of the first day at the Academy. Class members are given a tour of the facility, a review of the Academy rules, and introductions are made.
PERSONNEL ISSUES (3 Hours)
This course is an introduction to the Department’s expectations regarding Administrative Regulation 112.31, Code of Ethics and Conduct. The class will also examine the Department’s discipline and grievance procedures and introduce the class to the types of leave available and state observed holidays. The last 20 minutes of this class is set aside for a Union Representative to speak to the class.
DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT (2.5 Hours)
This course examines some of the historical aspects of discrimination and harassment in the United States, gives legal as well as ethical reasons prohibiting the practice of discrimination and harassment, and outlines the Department’s policy and practices in handling discrimination and harassment issues. This course is designed to encourage and promote a positive and productive work environment by sensitizing all NDCS employees to the effects of discrimination and harassment practices.
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (1.5 Hours)
This course explains which bodily fluids carry pathogens, how to protect yourself from them and what to do if exposed.
ORIENTATION TO CORRECTIONS (3 Hours)
An orientation to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services that includes a brief overview of the Criminal Justice System, followed by more specific information about NDCS regarding history, mission, structure, and clientele.
REPORT WRITING (8 Hours)
This course introduces the participants to correctional reports and correctional report writing. It also includes the purpose of reports and the components necessary for an acceptable report. The participants will learn how to write reports based on the five (5) elements of successful report writing. Participants will also learn how to complete Misconduct Reports and Incident Reports based on scenarios.
CRIME SCENE AND EVIDENCE (1.5 Hours)
An orientation to crime scene procedures and evidence collection/preservation with emphasis placed on security of the crime scene and the facility.
ORIENTATION TO SAFETY AND SANITATION (1.5 Hours)
An overview of the Department’s procedures with regards to the safety and sanitation of the facilities, staff, and inmates. The instructor also discusses how the policies of the Department are applied/measured to ensure the goals of the Department are met and maintained.
SUICIDE ISSUES/HOOK KNIFE (4 Hours)
This course contains essential information regarding the identification and management of suicidal inmates within the NDCS. This course also discusses the myths associated with suicide, most commonly used methods, management of pharmaceuticals, and emergency response kits. Use of the hook knife is also explained.
USE OF FORCE (4 Hours)
This course provides new employees with a familiarization of the NDCS Use of Force policy as outlined by Administrative Regulation 116.2 and includes a discussion of levels of resistance, levels of control, deadly force issues, and other tactical considerations.
CORRECTIONAL COMMUNICATION (2.5 Hours)
This course is an introduction to communication in the correctional setting. The content reviews basic communication concepts and how they relate to working with aggressive and non-aggressive inmates. Proper communication etiquette with staff is also reviewed.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION (2 Hours)
To fully appreciate cultural differences, individuals must recognize the influence of their own culture on how they think and act. This course will explore these issues as well as diversity and the dynamics of difference in the workplace.
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT/BASIC FIRST AID (7 Hours)
This course is designed to prepare employees for what to do in a medical emergency before medical help arrives, including how to recognize an emergency and how to respond. The instructor will also discuss ways to prevent injury and/or illness. Employees taking these courses will be certified in American Safety & Health Institute Adult CPR/AED and First Aid.
INTRODUCTION TO SECURITY (1 Hour)
This course introduces participants to the role of security in correctional operations. Discussion includes the importance of key control, tool control, searches, counts, and passes and their relationship to individual employee responsibility.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS (4 Hours)
This course is an overview of the Department’s policies and procedures concerning emergencies that may occur in the institutions. The five step tactical plan, organizational structure, support functions and hostage management will be discussed in detail. Participants will practice principles learned by conducting an emergency exercise.
RESTRAINTS AND TRANSPORTING INMATES (4 Hours)
The purpose of this course is to familiarize the students with NDCS security restraints, and to teach the students the skills and techniques necessary to properly apply restraints. The students will be familiarized with the policies and procedures regarding transporting inmates outside of our facilities.
SEXUAL ABUSE/ASSAULT AWARENESS (2 Hours)
This course provides an overview of the Prison Rape Elimination Act, Nebraska Statutes, and a review of NDCS policy prohibiting sexual activity with inmates, offenders, or parolees. NDCS Medical Protocol, Mental Health Procedures, and the Inmate Orientation information will be reviewed.
INMATE RULES AND REGULATIONS (3 Hours)
This course is intended to be a brief introduction to the rules and regulations that govern inmate behavior. The course will brief the students on the code of offenses, internal disciplinary process and the possible disciplinary sanctions available to them. This course will also review the grievance, mail, and visitation procedures relevant to inmate control.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE (1 Hour)
This course explores the various aspects of substance abuse in the correctional setting including how drugs enter facilities and their impact on the inmate population. The different categories of drugs, examples of both drugs and intoxicants, methods of ingestion, and the resulting physiological effects are discussed.
SEARCHES (7 Hours)
An introduction to contraband in a correctional facility and the utilization of various searches to control it. Key elements of the pat, strip, room, area, and vehicle searches are taught including a practical application of the pat and room search. Professional conduct during searches and possible consequences of inappropriate actions are also discussed.
INMATE CON GAMES (3 Hours)
This course provides the student with an understanding of the manipulative offender personality as well as the susceptible traits that manipulative inmates will look for in targeted staff members. The course will then discuss the methods of manipulation and the techniques staff can utilize to avoid manipulation through professional behavior and communication skills. Lastly, the students will apply what they learn to a Case Study involving staff manipulation followed by a large group discussion.
INTRODUCTION TO LEGAL ISSUES (3 Hours)
This course covers the legal basis for the NDCS policies and procedures. Course content includes inmate rights, employee rights, employee responsibility, employee and departmental liability, legal terminology, and courtroom behavior.
VICTIMS AWARENESS (1 Hour)
This course identifies basic victim issues that may occur in the public and correctional setting, as well as community resources available for assistance. The characteristics and awareness of the impact of victimization will be addressed in accordance with the criminal justice continuum. Protocol for staff victimization in the workplace will be covered to ensure that all staff understand their roles, responsibilities and procedures in the event of a victim incident.
NDCS DRIVER REGULATIONS (1.5 Hours)
A review of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services policy regarding the use of state-owned vehicles and personal vehicles used for state business. A review of safe vehicle operation and driver performance is also conducted.
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES (2 Hours)
This course enables professional supervision of religious rites and activities by defining the role of the Religious Coordinator, introduction of religious program policies and procedures, and presentation of the faiths currently practiced in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. Also included is a summary of approved and non-approved community and individual religious articles and practices, exploration of common staff misconceptions about the practice of religion in a prison and discussion of national and local legislation and litigation effecting policy.
INMATE CLASSIFICATION (2 Hours)
This course provides an introduction to the inmate classification system. It covers Initial Classification, Reclassification, the Rating Factors, Central Monitoring, Overrides, Custody levels, and Administrative Segregation.
INCARCERATION: IMPACT & INTERVENTION PRINCIPLES (2 Hours)
This course is designed to enhance the participant’s understanding of inmates and some of the reasons for their behavior in the prison setting. There is an emphasis on the concept of prisonization and the specific psychological impacts of incarceration. In addition, this training provides information for staff about ways to interact effectively with inmates and ways to address manipulation. The three R’s of inmate accountability will be presented and the principles will be discussed.
CHEMICAL AGENT OVERVIEW (1 Hour)
This course is designed to introduce the participants to the chemical agents available to the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS). This course will include modern uses, types of chemical agents and methods of deployment.
STRESS MANAGEMENT (2 Hours)
This course is designed to provide students with information about the different types and stages of stress, recognizing the emotional and physical effects of stress and developing positive coping skills and prevention techniques to reduce the negative effects. Students will participate in an opening exercise that will identify their current personal stressors and their anticipated professional stressors. At the end of the course, students will then list positive coping skills tailored for them and their types of stress.
ADA ISSUES (1 Hour)
This course provides a brief outline of the history of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to include what legislation preceded the Act and how it was refined to expand that legislation. Definitions of common terms such as 1) reasonable/unreasonable accommodation, 2) qualified individual, 3) disability, and 4) discrimination on the basis of disability, are explained.
FIREARMS (24 Hours)
This course provides instruction in the basic operation, safe handling, loading, unloading, and firing of the rifle and the shotgun.
LEVEL II – DEFENSIVE TACTICS (8 Hours)
This course teaches tactics from the PPCT S.H.A.R.P. (Sexual Harassment, Assault, and Rape Prevention) and Spontaneous Knife Defense courses. The tactics are simple self-defense tactics and are not intended for subject control. A review of applicable areas of AR 116.2 – Use of Force is included.
MANAGEMENT BRIEFING (1 Hour)
A welcome by the Director or designee and a briefing regarding current topics within the Department. A question and answer period is incorporated into the discussion.
NDCS QUALITY INITIATIVE (1 Hour)
This course is an overview of the Department’s quality efforts. Identification of customers, organizational culture, history of quality, what is quality, why quality, and staff’s role in quality is discussed.
LEVEL III – SUBJECT CONTROL TACTICS (22.5 Hours)
This course is designed to instill in participants a thorough knowledge of the PPCT Inmate Control program and the Department’s Use of Force policy as it relates to physical force/control. Participants are expected to know the levels of resistance and control, proper positioning, the principles and methods of control, and several types of restraint techniques. The second part of this course deals with PPCT Spontaneous Knife Defense techniques.
OC CERTIFICATION (4 Hours)
This course will introduce the integration of chemical agents to the Use of Force Policy. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services goal is to minimize the potential injury to staff and inmates. This course contains the essential philosophy of the use of chemical agents, the responsibilities of the Staff and the protocol in which to deploy chemicals. This course will describe the physiological and psychological effects of chemical use, the health and safety risks as well as the decontamination criteria.
FORCED CELL MOVES (8 Hours)
A review of the Department’s Use of Force policy and how it applies to forced cell move situations. This course also provides an introduction to the Department’s procedure for conducting forced cell moves and the equipment necessary for the procedure. Practical application exercises in pinning, using riot shields, use of restraints, and forced cell moves will be done to emphasize conduct and teamwork. A mild chemical agent exposure is included in this class.
INTRODUCTION TO CERT/SORT/CNT (1 Hour)
This course is an introduction to the Department’s Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT), the Special Operations Response Team (SORT) and the Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT). The purpose, structure, training, member qualification, equipment, and selection process is explained.
SECURITY THREAT GROUPS (2 Hours)
This course defines the term “Security Threat Group” and identifies the groups that are designated as Security Threat Groups with the NDCS. Each specific group is defined and examples/explanations are given for each. Reasons why individuals affiliate with a Security Threat Group and variables that encourage growth of Security Threat Groups within a prison are discussed. Why Security Threat Groups are detrimental to the Department and pertinent legal issues are presented. The responsibilities of an Intelligence Officer are explained and the names of the staff currently assigned these responsibilities are relayed to the participants.
Call the Academy for Pre-Service start dates.
The In-Service program provides annual recertifications and updates for all employees, contractors, and volunteers. While Security and Unit Staff account for the majority of the attendees, Food Service, Maintenance, Recreation, and numerous other job classifications attend this training annually. This program is updated at the beginning of each fiscal year based on an annual needs survey, student evaluations, and current correctional trends.
WELCOME & INFORMATIONAL UPDATES (1 Hour)
This course will welcome participants to In-Service training. Students will be issued information on their institution's fire/severe weather/first aid information as well as the rules relative to the week's training. Students will also be issued handouts and discuss information covering the following subjects: Training Schedule, EAP, Charitable Giving Campaign, Victims Awareness, Computer Usage Policy, Link (EWC, EDC, PFC, CC), Communicable Disease.
ETHICS (1 Hour)
This course will discuss the difference between moral and ethical issues and explore ethical paradigms. The principles of ethical decision-making, ethical decision checkpoints and influences that can affect ethical decision-making will also be explored. A review of fraud and conflict of interest for public service personnel will be conducted.
DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT (1 Hour)
This course will examine why harassment and discrimination is detrimental to having a positive working environment. The course will include discussion on legal and ethical reasons for prohibiting the practice of discrimination and harassment. This course identifies employees’ responsibilities to promote a positive work environment by not participating in the negative effects of harassment and discrimination in our work place.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS (1 Hour)
This course is a review and discussion of the Five-Step Tactical Plan, the responsibilities of Emergency Responders, elements of Emergency Policies and changes to the Emergency Command Structure. The review will consist of a Pre-Test and Lecture covering the above mentioned items.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION (2 Hours)
This course is designed for all levels of NDCS staff, to promote stronger teams and a safer environment through increased levels of cultural competence. The course demonstrates culturally appropriate ways to recognize and address issues of diversity relevant to the corrections setting. Diversity terms, concepts, and definitions are covered and used throughout the course. Interactive activities and video scenarios allow participants to experience positive examples of what cultural competency looks and sounds like. Teamwork and safety are consistently highlighted as the primary motivation to achieve individual and organizational diversity goals and to foster an inclusive environment.
PREA & PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES
This course meets the staff training requirements as written in the Federal PREA Standards that have been signed in June of 2003. This course explains the background of PREA, first responder responsibilities and characteristics of victims and predators. Staff will demonstrate their knowledge by taking a pre and post-test. Staff will learn the content of the training through a video and discussion. Staff will be required to acknowledge that they understand the policy and procedures of the Department and agree to sign an agreement indicating such.
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT/BASIC FIRST AID (7 Hours)
This course is designed to prepare employees for what to do in a medical emergency before medical help arrives, including how to recognize an emergency and how to respond. The instructor will also discuss ways to prevent injury and/or illness. Employees taking these courses will be certified in American Safety & Health Institute Adult CPR/AED and First Aid.
LEVEL III REVIEW (1 Hour)
This class is a review of the cognitive components of Level III. It covers Use of Force Human Factors, Control Principles, Escort Position and Joint Lock Control, Pressure Point Control Tactics, Defensive Counterstrikes, and the Shoulder Pin Restraint System. PPCT Level III Review and PPCT Level III Subject Control Tactics are required per A.R. 114.05 for all regular full-time Custody Positions and Professional Specialist Employees that have daily or regular contact with inmates. For a complete break down see attachment A of A.R. 114.05.
LEVEL III – SUBJECT CONTROL (8 Hours)
This course begins with a written test after which the PPCT Inmate Control and PPCT Spontaneous Knife Defense programs are reviewed. Inmate Control includes Pressure Points and Nerve Motor Points, Joint Locks, Defensive Counterstrikes, and Shoulder Pin. Knife Defense includes basic angles of attack, knife fighter profiles, rules for facing an edged weapon, strikes, and takedowns.
SUICIDE ISSUES (2 Hours)
Participants will discuss relevant mental health issues. Participants will be able to identify symptoms of common mental illnesses in Corrections and learn how to interact with individuals with mental illness. Participants will discuss the NDCS policy and procedure on Suicide Prevention & Intervention. Participants will be able to identify general facts about suicides, methods used, warning signs and how to properly intervene.
INMATE RULES (1 Hour)
This course is designed to be a large group discussion of issues that repeatedly come before the Appeals Board based on Rules 5 and 6 of the Inmate Rule Book. The primary focus is on the basic report principles that must be applied to the Disciplinary Process in order to hold inmates accountable for their actions.
USE OF FORCE POLICY REVIEW (1 Hour)
This course will provide a review of Administrative Regulation 116.02, Use of Force, by utilizing a group exercise. During this exercise, students will become familiar with the security equipment utilized by the employees, as well as the guidelines and directions of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services based on the most current policies.
OC CERTIFICATION (3 Hours)
This course will review the chemical agent OC as it pertains to the Use of Force Policy for the Nebraska Department of Corrections. The students will understand the ultimate goal for integrating OC is to minimize the potential injury to both staff and inmates alike. This course contains the essential philosophy of the use of chemical agents, the responsibilities of the Staff and protocol in which it is to be deployed. This course will describe the physiological and psychological effects of chemical use, the health and safety risks as well as decontamination criteria.
VERBAL DE-ESCALATION/COMMUNICATION (1 Hour)
This is a course on how to deal with verbally aggressive inmates. This class looks at some solutions on how to not be drawn into a verbal confrontation as well as how to resolve the situation calmly.
Call the Academy for In-Service start dates.
The Academy will support the following Quality/Leadership programs in FY 2012-2013:
TEAMS, TOOLS, and TECHNIQUES (3 T’s)
This course gives staff the tools, skills, and knowledge to be an effective member on a process actions team or any type of work team. It allows all staff the resources they will need to have the opportunity to get involved in decision making.
FACILITATOR TRAINING
This course gives individuals the resources to become effective facilitators for process actions teams or any type of work groups. This course guides individuals in the awareness of the design and management of structures and processes that will help a group do its work and minimize the common problems people have working together.
EXCELLING AS A FIRST TIME SUPERVISOR
This course covers survival techniques necessary for the smooth transition from line staff to supervision. This course includes policy review, forms completion, coaching, performance feedback, goal setting, and other pertinent issues.
LEADERSHIP 1
This course provides an overview of models of leadership and explores the principles and characteristics of an effective leader.
ADVANCED CORRECTIONAL LEADERSHIP
This course builds on the information presented in Leadership 1 with a more in-depth analysis of the essential aspects of good leadership.
The Academy is fortunate to have Instructor-Trainers within the Agency to provide Instructor training in the areas of American Safety & Health Institute CPR/AED/First Aid, PPCT Inmate Control, PPCT Spontaneous Knife Defense, PPCT SHARP, and Firearms. The Instructor Schools provide in-house opportunities for Agency staff to share their knowledge in specialty areas and become skilled in presentation techniques. The Academy also offers re-certification classes in the areas mentioned above
CPR/AED/FIRST AID INSTRUCTOR (24.0 Hours)
This instructor course is certified by The American Safety & Health Institute and is required for anyone teaching CPR or First Aid. This course prepares instructors to teach employees what to do in a medical emergency before medical help arrives, including how to recognize an emergency and how to respond. The instructor also learns ways to prevent injury and/or illness.
PPCT INMATE CONTROL INSTRUCTOR (40.0 Hours)
This instructor course is certified by PPCT Management Systems, Inc. and is required for anyone teaching Level III - Subject Control Tactics. The course covers Survival Learning Research, Control Principles, Reaction Time, Relative Positioning, Resistance Control Continuum, Tactical Handcuffing, Escort Position and Joint Lock Control, Pressure Point Control Tactics, Defensive Counterstrikes, Shoulder Pin, Impact Weapon/Collapsible Baton, and Weapon Retention & Disarming.
PPCT SPONTANEOUS KNIFE DEFENSE INSTRUCTOR (24.0 Hours)
This instructor course is certified by PPCT Management Systems, Inc. and is required for anyone teaching Level III - Subject Control Tactics. The course covers Survival Learning Research, Control Principles, Reaction Time, Resistance Control Continuum, Fundamentals of Knife Fighting, and Defense Techniques.
PPCT SHARP INSTRUCTOR (16.0 Hours)
This instructor course is certified by PPCT Management Systems, Inc. and is required for anyone teaching Level II - Defensive Tactics. The course covers Survival Stress, Prevention Psychology, Principles of Avoidance, Passive Releases and Escapes, Defensive Counterstrikes, and Disarming.
FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR (40.0 Hours)
This instructor course is required for anyone teaching Firearms classes for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The course covers Range Rules and Firearms Class Procedures, Ruger Mini-14 rifle, Remington 870 shotgun, H & K USP, and familiarization with emergency team weapons.
Call the Academy for Instructor School dates.
PO Box 94661
2320 N 57th Street
Lincoln, NE 68509-4661
Phone: (402) 471-1781
