February 2025 Edition
By Monica Alexander, Executive Director
As we enter February, I am reflecting on our recent achievements and the work that lies ahead at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC). I want to share my thoughts on our journey toward IADLEST accreditation, the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and the significance of Black History Month.
IADLEST Accreditation: Why It Matters
Last week, we had our IADLEST site visit. I’ll be honest—we were a little nervous, but in a good way. It’s not every day you open your doors and say, “Come in, take a look at what we’re doing, and tell us how we can be better.”
The debrief? It was great. Hearing the evaluators recognize the hard work our team puts in every day was incredible. It’s one thing when I say our people are amazing—it’s another when outside experts see it, too.
So, what is IADLEST Accreditation? It’s a process where the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) reviews how we operate. They look at everything: training programs, staff, facilities, policies—you name it. We’re measured against 54 national standards.
If we earn this accreditation, WSCJTC will be the first state agency in the country to do so. But more than the title, it shows we’re committed to meeting the highest standards and always striving to improve. That means better training, stronger officers, and healthier relationships with our communities.
Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at WSCJTC
When people ask me about DEI, I keep it simple: it means everyone. It’s not just about policies; it’s about how we show up every day.
Diversity isn’t just race or gender. It’s about experiences, skills, perspectives—even the people who love crunching numbers (which, trust me, isn’t everyone). We need all kinds of minds to keep us moving forward.
Black History Month: A Chance to Learn and Connect
With Black History Month here, I encourage you to pick one person of African American descent—famous or not—and learn about them. Understanding different histories helps us connect on a deeper level.
The more we learn about each other, the stronger our communities become. It’s as simple as that.
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up the accreditation process and celebrate Black History Month, I’m proud of the work we’re doing together. We’re not just checking boxes—we’re growing, learning, and making a real impact.
Thanks for being part of this journey. Stay tuned for more updates.