The Basic Correctional Officer Academy offered an on-site tour for cadets at Valley State Prison in mid-July. The visit was the first of its kind for Valley in over a decade. These tours help expose cadets to a prison’s layout, institutional staff, incarcerated individuals, daily activities, and overall institutional mission.
Prison staff, along with academy sergeants, escorted cadets through predesignated areas of the prison. The tour began with introductions and an overview of expectations by the prison’s executive staff.
They were then divided into four groups of eight to 10 cadets each with an academy sergeant and a prison staff member. This arrangement ensured personalized and comprehensive exposure to the facility.
Cadets tour various areas of prison
Throughout the two days of tours, the cadets visited various areas of the prison including:
- gymnasium, visiting areas
- restricted housing unit
- receiving and release
- outpatient housing unit
- vocation and education facilities
- recreation yards and dayrooms
- living areas and dining hall
- and program offices.
These visits provided cadets with a firsthand look at day-to-day operations within a prison.
A significant aspect of the tour was the incorporation of California Model initiatives. These initiatives focus on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism through education, vocational training, and supportive programs. Cadets observed these efforts in action, witnessing how they contribute to creating a safer and more rehabilitative environment within the prison. Many cadets praised prison staff for their positivity, helpfulness, and friendliness.
The tours at Valley State Prison provided the cadets with invaluable insight into the prison’s operations and the progressive measures being implemented under the California Model.
This experience is expected to significantly enhance their training and prepare them for their future roles as correctional officers.
Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.
Submitted by Lt. H. Gastelum
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