October Edition
This October has been a powerful reminder of how innovation, partnership, and purpose drive everything we do at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission.
Earlier this month, we hosted a Virtual Reality (VR) training demonstration at our Burien headquarters that brought media, partners, and community members together to see the future of law enforcement training in action. Watching our instructors and recruits walk through immersive, real-world scenarios showed exactly what makes this technology so transformative—it helps officers build empathy, improve decision-making, and practice communication in a safe, controlled environment. This event was not just a demonstration; it was a glimpse into how Washington continues to lead the nation in modern, equitable training practices.
October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to reflect on our collective responsibility to support survivors and strengthen our response to one of the most complex and important issues facing communities. Our curriculum team continues to work closely with subject-matter experts and national partners to revise and modernize our training. Together, we are building programs that emphasize trauma-informed response, empathy, and accountability—ensuring that every officer we train is prepared to respond with both skill and compassion.
Meanwhile, progress on House Bill 2015 continues statewide. This new public safety funding law gives cities and counties the opportunity to invest directly in training, equipment, and programs that strengthen community safety. Our team is actively guiding local jurisdictions through the verification process and answering questions to help them make the most of this opportunity. It’s inspiring to see communities embrace collaboration as the path toward safer, better-trained public servants.
As we close the month, I want to thank every instructor, staff member, and partner who continues to make these achievements possible. Your work ensures that Washington’s public safety professionals are not only well-trained but well-prepared to serve with integrity, empathy, and excellence.
— Monica Alexander
Executive Director, Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission
