(Washington, D.C.)---The District of Columbia Department of Corrections Director, Devon Brown, announces that 11 Department of Corrections (DOC) officials earned certified corrections designations from the American Correctional Association (ACA).  These distinctions range from Certified Corrections Executive, Certified Corrections Manager, and the Certified Corrections Supervisor.

This achievement highlights an ambitious change within the Department to augment its workforce and improve the overall organizational culture.  These 11 officials comprised the first DOC class to obtain this nationally applauded recognition.  Additional plans are underway to encourage all correctional officers and support staff to acquire credentials which meet or exceed national standards.

As a prerequisite to achieving ACA certification, applicants must qualify on the basis of their experience and accomplishments in the field of corrections.  These individuals are then required to complete a comprehensive examination that assesses their expertise in a host of areas related to correctional operations.

The certification program is an indication of demonstrated professionalism encompassing such activities as supervising human resources, possessing and demonstrating leadership skills, managing change, maintaining operational oversight, and general knowledge relating to the corrections profession.

The ACA designed the program to advance the overall knowledge level of practitioners in the corrections field, promote awareness of the contributions of corrections toward the furtherance of public safety, and aid in the recruitment of new, talented, staff members in the profession.