Week in Review: February 13, 2026

February 13, 2026

In this February 13 Week in Review, we spotlight Academy Administrator Breann Cantu, the CDCR Academy launching new social media pages, and CSP-Corcoran’s Super Bowl themed staff appreciation day.

What’s New

CDCR Academy launches Facebook, Instagram pages

Basic Correctional Officer CDCR Academy with bar code and social media icons.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Academy has announced the launch of its official Facebook and Instagram pages.

These platforms will highlight the academy’s history, cadets, academy staff, training, and special events.

3 Questions with Breann Cantu, Academy Administrator

Since 2008, Breann Cantu has helped the department fulfill its public safety mission. She first served as a correctional officer and then promoted through the ranks to become the CDCR Academy Administrator.

Why did you choose to join the department?

Academy Administrator Breann Cantu — Breann Cantu, Academy Administrator

I had my eyes set on becoming a correctional counselor. And like many other law enforcement agencies, you must put your time in and show you are capable and competent for such a promotion.

Therefore, I was determined to work hard, learn from those who came before me, and figure out what it would take when the time was right to become a correctional counselor. Little did I know when I started my career, the endless opportunities the department had to offer.

What advice you might have for others looking to join CDCR?

The possibilities are endless. From correctional officers to fire camps and K-9 officers to Crisis Response Teams, there is a fit for everyone. If you are looking for a change or want to try something new, this department offers those opportunities and is a statewide agency. Join this department because there is continual opportunity for both professional and personal growth.

Do you have any advice for those looking to promote within the department?

The best advice I can give to someone looking to promote is to remember, every day is an interview. Your daily performance and willingness to go above and beyond will be noticed. Hard work, a good attitude and the ability to be a helping hand speaks volumes.

Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.

In the Community

ASP answers the call, builds futures

Custody staff from Avenal State Prison (ASP) stepped onto campus for career day at Hanford High School. Recruitment staff met with curious juniors and seniors eager to learn about their futures.

The team spoke openly about the department’s core values, long-term goals, and the sense of pride that comes with working in public service. Staff highlighted the benefits of competitive pay, health and retirement packages, and clear paths for upward mobility. By the end of the day, students left inspired and saw corrections not just as a job but as a meaningful and rewarding career choice.

student dressed in corrections tactical gear next to two correctional officers

Student dressed in corrections tactical gear

CMC officers help driver after truck burst into flames

Two CMC transportation officers helped a driver whose truck burst into flames Jan. 16.

Two correctional officers from California Men’s Colony (CMC) helped a driver after her truck burst into flames on Interstate 5.

While returning from a transport to Northern California on Jan. 16, Officers D. Davis and S. French were traveling southbound when they came upon a fully involved semi-truck.

SATF joins CrossFit

With the help of Educational Coach Christopher Costello, the California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison at Corcoran (SATF) started a CrossFit class for the incarcerated population.

“What started as a little inspiration, seeing what Coach Eskew built at Avenal State Prison, turned into something far bigger than I expected,” said Coach Costello.

With this vision in mind, Costello reached out to Courtney Rife, a CrossFit staff member, for guidance. CrossFit inside the institution walls is more than a workout, it’s structure, accountability, discipline, and community. One of the long-term goals is to provide an opportunity for participants at SATF to earn their CrossFit Level 1, just as Coach Eskew did at ASP.

SATF continues to focus on rehabilitation through recreational activities.

LAC hosts Valentine Gram Fundraiser

California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC), hosted a Valentine Gram fundraiser for staff. A dedicated team of volunteers transformed the institution into a Valentine’s workshop, handcrafting over 500 gourmet cake pops for the fundraiser.

While many staff members purchased sweet treats for themselves, others purchased a surprise gram for a partner on the next shift or as a token of appreciation for a mentor. Funds raised support the local employee association and will be used for future staff appreciation events.

Corcoran hosts staff appreciation Super Bowl

California State Prison, Corcoran (COR), hosted a Super Bowl themed staff appreciation day to thank staff for their continued hard work and dedication.

Staff on first watch enjoyed donuts and hot coffee in their facilities. Staff on second and third watch were provided with barbecued hotdogs and hamburgers. Adding to the excitement, staff sported their favorite NFL team hat to celebrate Super Bowl LX.

The staff appreciation event was sponsored by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA), Chicano Correctional Workers Association (CCWA), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and the Employee Activity Committee (EAC).

In the Media

Folsom State Prison awards 126 graduates with workforce certifications

A full-circle moment unfolded Tuesday at Folsom State Prison during the Folsom State Prison Apprenticeship and Graduation Ceremony, which recognized 126 incarcerated individuals who completed workforce training, nationally accredited job certifications and apprenticeship programs designed to prepare them for employment following release.