Strategy #27
Partnering in In-Service
and Supervisory Training
Develop training that incorporates “partnering.”
Background
Few agencies have adequate budgets to support police training at a level they feel is sufficient. At the same time, agencies face the challenge of providing in-service and supervisory training that can keep up with developing technology and changing societal demands. In the future many agencies will be using a variety of new technologies to deliver training through “distance learning” activities. Consequently, training should be developed with the cooperation and partnership of other law enforcement agencies, educational facilities, community colleges, and other institutions whenever appropriate resources are available and standards can be met.
Actions
- Develop a training program that will take advantage of other government and law enforcement agencies, private enterprise resources, and educational facilities.
- Whenever possible, establish reciprocal agreements to decrease training costs.
- Identify and solicit resources within the agency that could be shared with other agencies such as gyms, computers, classrooms, driving tracks, and instructors.
- Identify other governmental agencies that would benefit from sharing training resources and establishing a partnership.
- Identify institutional barriers that may impede the ability to share resources.
Benefits
- Allows small law enforcement agencies to provide training that would otherwise be too expensive if they were to hire their own instructors and acquire equipment and training sites.
- Establishes cooperative relationships and develops rapport with other agencies and organizations.
- Allows agencies to share technology, experience, and expertise.
- Using available funds in a more effective and efficient manner results in cost savings to taxpayers.
- May increase funds available for additional training resources.
Other Considerations
- A long range training plan or policy is necessary to anticipate future training needs and changing technology. Long range planning will also help ensure interconnectivity of devices and equipment, and compatibility of systems.
- Proper communication between participating agencies is imperative for success.