Press Release  Massachusetts Department of Correction Launches the Align Initiative

MILFORD — The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) today announced the launch of the Align Initiative – A 5-Year Commitment to Safer Facilities, Stronger Operations, and Improved Outcomes, a comprehensive strategic plan that will guide the agency’s work from 2026 through 2031. 

Developed through extensive engagement with staff, incarcerated individuals, community partners, advocacy organizations, and policymakers, the Align Initiative outlines six core priorities: Workforce Investment, Safety, Excellence in Health & Wellbeing, Excellence in Operations, Enhance Reentry Assets, and Communication & Data Sharing. Each goal includes measurable objectives and key performance indicators to track progress through 2031. 

“The Align Initiative reflects the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s commitment to modern, evidence-informed correctional practices,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina K. Kwon. “It translates our values into tangible projects, clear metrics and greater transparency so that we can strengthen operations and improve outcomes for the people of Massachusetts.” 

“This initiative represents both an adaptable plan to guide our work and a shared commitment to create safer facilities, healthier communities, and expand opportunities for those in our care,” said Department of Correction Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “I am grateful to the staff and the many stakeholders who helped shape this plan, and I am confident that our talented and dedicated team will achieve meaningful, measurable progress across every facility.” 

Highlights of the Align Initiative include efforts to recruit and retain top talent, enhance violence prevention and crisis preparedness, expand access to patient-centered health care, modernize operations, strengthen reentry pathways, and improve transparency through data sharing.

Developed in partnership with Falcon, Inc., an independent consultant, the plan reflects stakeholder input and aligns the Department’s strategies with national best practices in corrections. 

As part of the rollout, the DOC is establishing a Strategic Initiatives Division to coordinate implementation of the plan, align agency work with the six goals, manage performance measures, and report on progress to internal and external stakeholders. 

The plan includes a series of key initiatives tied to each goal, including: 

• Workforce Investment: Staff wellbeing and career longevity research in partnership with Northeastern University; new recognition programs and leadership development pathways; efforts to strengthen staffing stability and reduce forced overtime.
• Safety: A systemwide violence surveillance initiative to better define, measure, and prevent violence; and improvements to use-of-force and investigative processes.
• Health & Wellbeing: Revalidation of the DOC’s classification system, expansion of tablet-based and hybrid programs, and increased access to evidence-based programming for individuals at all security levels, including maximum custody.
• Operations: Streamlined core processes, modernization of food services and facility operations, and ongoing alignment between statewide policies and daily practice.
• Enhance Reentry Assets: Expanded access to identification and benefits documentation prior to release; growth in educational and vocational credentials; remote and in-person work opportunities; and enhanced partnerships to support housing, employment, and continuity of care.
• Communications & Data Sharing: Commissioner town halls, a dedicated strategic planning function, and enhanced public-facing dashboards. 

Throughout the five-year period, the DOC will track specific performance measures under each goal, such as reductions in violence, increased program completion rates, improved staff retention and wellness, expanded access to reentry supports, and greater transparency through data and public reporting. 

Align Initiative is a living document that will evolve to meet the dynamic challenges and opportunities of the correctional environment. Progress will be tracked, shared publicly, and informed by ongoing input from staff, stakeholders, and the community.

Here is a link to the Align Initiative website: mass.gov/align2031. 

About the Massachusetts Department of Correction  
The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) manages the custody, care, and reentry of approximately 6,000 individuals across 13 state facilities. The DOC emphasizes evidence-based programming, trauma-informed care and educational and vocational training to reduce recidivism and is committed to fostering accountability, personal growth and success upon release. Through partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders, the DOC delivers innovative services tailored to the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals while advancing equity, inclusion and long-term public safety.  

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