Background

In 1989, the Department of Corrections began an unprecedented period
of system expansion including both new prison construction and growth
in community corrections programs. As the need for employee training
increased the DOC recognized that there was an urgent need for a larger
residential facility that could meet long term training requirements.

In 1990, based on the recommendations of a legislatively funded study,
the department requested and received funding to construct a new
residential academy on DOC property in Goochland County, Virginia.
The Academy for Staff Development moved into the new facilities and
began operation in May, 1993.

The Academy for Staff Development has and continues to do what it was designed to do, provide a total learning environment for the DOC employee during his or her training. The Academy has accommodated numerous representatives representing various training and criminal justice organizations. The Academy has also been contacted and visited by a number of individuals interested or involved in designing a criminal justice training facility. Feedback from these individuals and other colleagues has specifically noted the design features that enhance the flexibility of the facility relative to promoting effective training activities.

Although many positive comments have been received, we have learned that no design is perfect as we continue to make modifications to address the many opportunities and challenges we have experienced in meeting the tremendous growth and expansion of the Department of Corrections. The Academy continues to look forward to the future, to a greater use of distance education technology and to continued use of the Academy facility to provide the employee training and development DOC employees deserve.