The California Model

Introducing the California Model Magazine

The first issue of California Model Magazine is here! This biannual publication offers key insights into the CA Model’s pillars and progress, featuring expert views from CDCR leadership.

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CDCR has embarked on a once-in-a-generation transformation

Working with multidisciplinary experts, and building on international best practices and principles, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is implementing the “California Model.” The goal? Building safer communities through rehabilitation, education, and reentry.

The California Model is built on four foundational pillars:

Dynamic Security is an approach that promotes positive relationships between staff and incarcerated people. This is accomplished through purposeful activities and professional, positive, and respectful communication.

Peer Mentorship seeks to train incarcerated individuals to use their lived experiences to mentor and support their peers.

Normalization aims to bring life in prison as close as possible to life outside of prison. The more life in prison resembles life in the community, the easier it will be for people to transition and adjust to life in the community upon release.

Becoming a Trauma-Informed Organization: CDCR and CCHCS are committed to improving the practices, policies, and culture of the entire department by educating staff at all levels to recognize the impacts of trauma and ensure the physical and emotional safety of all staff and incarcerated individuals.

Video Spotlight: Embracing the California Model at CCWF

Central California Women’s Facility is committed to the California Model, showcasing a commitment to rehabilitation, positive experiences, and transformative change throughout the prison. The collaborative efforts of staff and incarcerated people reflect a profound dedication to public safety and successful reentry, capturing the essence of the California Model. Learn more at Inside CDCR.

watch more california model videos

In the Media

Back view of a man in a beanie talking to a group of people in a courtyard. — **Column: In L.A., a new vision of incarceration proves rehabilitation works** | LA Times

Two incarcerated men sit behind microphones — **‘I get to tell my story’: Incarcerated journalists are making podcasts, going viral and winning awards** | The Guardian

Incarcerated people look at brochures — **Behind prison walls: Folsom hosts its first program fair** | Folsom Times

A group of women and one man outside standing by raised beds — **Insight Garden Program: Cultivating second chances for incarcerated people in California** | The Business Journal

San Quentin transformation

In March 2023, Governor Newsom announced the future transformation of San Quentin State Prison into San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

Learn more

A man in a graduation cap and gown shakes hands with a man in a suit.

What is the California Model and how is it changing lives?

The California Model draws on international best practices to change culture within CDCR and CCHCS. The Department is committed to improving working and living conditions for all who live in, work in, and visit state prisons.

The California Model is in line with CDCR’s mission to enhance public safety and promote the successful reintegration of the people in our care back to their communities.

CDCR has partnered with the Amend program at the University of California, San Francisco, and has sent people in leadership positions to Norway to learn how their approach to normalcy in corrections and rehabilitation is lowering recidivism and expanding employee wellness.

While Norway and California are very different, the core of their model is the same as ours. When we treat one another with respect, our environment will change for the better.