Probation Department is an entity that fosters change by means of rigorous investigation, effective supervision, and maintaining fidelity to evidence-based practices. As such, it is not uncommon for Probation employees to have an education related to criminal justice, behavioral sciences, and/or social services. Upon employment, Probation Officers receive standardized training, including completion of Core training. The curriculum for Core training was developed by the Standards and Training for Corrections (STC), a division of the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC). STC partners with correctional agencies to develop and administer selection and training standards based on core tasks of Corrections, Probation, and/or Correctional Peace Officers.

Continued education/core training as mandated by BSCC covers areas such as:

• Criminal justice system – history of Probation
• Roles and responsibilities
• Penal Codes
• Legal foundations and liability
• Confidentiality and records
• Professionalism and ethics
• Priority setting and time management
• Interpersonal and effective communication
• Motivational Interviewing - writing investigation reports
• Managing people with substance abuse and mental health disorders
• Crisis communication and de-escalation of intense situations

Parallel to learning opportunities that officers benefit from, the Probation Department also promotes education to supervised clients. Services that provide employment training, obtainment of diplomas, cognitive counseling to adjust maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, and others more that affect change are some of the tools that the Probation Department provides to foster learning.