Court Officer Academy Student Court Officer Manual: Philosophy of Training

Learn more about the philosophy of training at the Massachusetts Trial Court Officer Academy.

Professionalism is the keystone of the Massachusetts Trial Court Officer Academy. Professionalism is essential to ensure an effective training environment where new Student Court Officers can develop their leadership, critical thinking skills and fine-tune their abilities to deal with stressful situations, which they will encounter. It is mandated that all Trial Court Academy Staff and Instructors exhibit the highest professional values and standards of the Massachusetts Trial Court, as role models and mentors for Student Court Officers. It is required that all those involved with training the Student Court Officers, led by example at the Academy, and outside of the Academy.

Training methods that conflict with the training philosophy of the Massachusetts Court Officer Academy will not be tolerated. Any act that demonstrates a lack of respect for human dignity is strictly forbidden.

The preferred method of influencing Student Court Officer performance and behavior is through the use of positive reinforcement. When necessary, Trial Court Academy staff will instill corrective action through the application of an appropriate progressive discipline system, as outlined in the respective Student Court Officer handbook. All other methods of discipline are forbidden.

An essential element to the successful completion of the Massachusetts Trial Court Officer Academy is teamwork. The Massachusetts Trial Court utilizes classroom lecture, skills assessments, and scenario training to prepare Student Court Officers to work together as a team. It is vital that Student Court Officers can meet the challenges of the job in an organized and unified approach. It is critical that Student Court Officers learn to recognize rank, follow orders, and become familiar with techniques necessary to effectively respond to incidents. Student Court Officers will learn to control their emotions during the performance of their duties, while under stress, which prepares the Student Court Officer to respond appropriately in any given situation.

During the Academy, Student Court Officer behavior will be monitored and guided in order to foster high performance and increase professional development. As training progresses, Student Court Officers will be able to develop problem solving skills, self-reliance, and leadership abilities.

Date published:	January 2, 2023