Albany County Celebrates First Graduating Class of the Capital Region Fundamentals of Probation Practice Academy

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy joined with Deputy Commissioner and Director of the Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives, Matthew Charton, to celebrate the graduation of the first class of probation officers who successfully completed the Capital Region Fundamentals of Probation Practice Academy, a critical step in preparing them to serve the community. This program was formed by the Albany County Department of Probation in collaboration with Rensselaer and Schenectady Counties to better fit the needs of probation departments throughout the Capital Region. The training was hosted in the Lally Building on the former College of Saint Rose Campus. This partnership ensures a stronger, unified approach to probation practices across neighboring counties.

"Today's graduates are stepping into one of the most challenging roles in public service. Hosting this training locally ensures they have the tools they need to succeed, and that investment will pay dividends in community safety and improved outcomes," said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy.

This training, typically only offered once or twice a year by New York State, is essential for all newly hired probation officers. Recognizing that this schedule has not kept pace with growing workforce needs, the Albany County Department of Probation took the initiative to host the training. The program is designed to provide new probation officers with an opportunity to learn, develop, and practice skills that are necessary to successfully work with individuals who receive probation services. The curriculum is based on evolving, evidence-based best practices and satisfies the requirements of DCJS Regulation 9 NYCRR Part §346, Staff Development. Training topics include:

• Procedural Justice

• Criminal and Family Court Law

• Motivational Interviewing

• Assessments and Case Planning

• Investigation Reporting Writing

• Evidenced Based Programs and Services

• Employment Services

• Specialized Supervision- Sex Offenders

• DWI/Leandra's Law

• Mental Health and Domestic Violence

• Officer Wellness

The first graduating class consisted of 16 probation officers:

• 7 from Albany County
• 2 from Montgomery County
• 3 from Schenectady County
• 1 from Schoharie County
• 2 from Ulster County
• 1 from Warren County

"This is the first graduating class of the Capital District Fundamentals of Probation Practice Academy. The Albany County Probation Department joins six other counties and the state Division of Criminal Justice Services in providing this essential training to new probation officers. This academy is another example of Albany County's commitment to the profession, the individuals who have decided to pursue this challenging and rewarding career, and the county residents they serve," said Deputy Commissioner and Director of the New York State Office of Probation and Correctional Alternatives Matthew Charton.

"This graduation is a proud moment for our department and these officers. I want to commend each graduate for the effort and dedication they've shown over these past weeks. They completed this training in addition to completing their regular duties, going above and beyond," said Albany County Probation Department Director William Connors.

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Pictured with graduates- far left back row is Matthew Charton and middle right with maroon striped time William Connors.