Each year, during the first full week of May, our nation pauses to recognize a group of professionals whose work is essential, demanding, and too often unseen.

From May 3–9, we observe National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, a time dedicated to honoring the men and women who serve in prisons, jails, and community corrections across the United States.

These professionals are the backbone of our justice system.

They are the steady presence behind secure doors.
They are the calm in unpredictable environments.
They are the individuals who show up, day after day, to ensure safety, accountability, and the opportunity for change.

A History of Recognition

National Correctional Officers and Employees Week was established in 1984, when Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5187. In doing so, he recognized the critical role correctional officers play in maintaining order and protecting the public, work that often goes unrecognized.

In 1996, Congress expanded the observance to include all correctional employees, acknowledging what those within the profession have always known:

It takes an entire team.

From officers and administrators to medical staff, counselors, educators, maintenance personnel, and support staff—each role is essential to the safe and effective operation of our correctional system.

The Role of Correctional Professionals

Correctional professionals work in environments that require constant vigilance, professionalism, and resilience.

They manage high-risk situations.
They respond to crises.
They maintain order in settings that can change in an instant.

But their role goes beyond security.

They are mentors.
They are problem-solvers.
They are often the first to recognize potential, encourage accountability, and support rehabilitation.

Their work impacts not only those in custody but also the safety of our communities as a whole.

A Profession That Deserves Recognition

Despite the critical nature of their work, correctional employees have historically received less recognition than other areas of law enforcement.

This week helps change that.

Across the country, agencies and institutions will host appreciation events, recognition ceremonies, and outreach efforts to honor their staff. These moments matter. They serve as a reminder that this work, though often behind the walls, is never without impact.

At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, we believe that recognition should not be limited to one week. It should be a year-round commitment to supporting those who serve and the families who stand beside them.

Coast to Coast: Celebrating Together

This year, CPOF will be present across the nation during National Correctional Officers and Employees Week—supporting events, recognizing staff, and standing alongside our correctional family from coast to coast.

But we don’t want this to be just our story.

We want it to be yours.

Whether it’s a small moment of appreciation, a full facility celebration, or a simple “thank you” shared among coworkers—these moments deserve to be seen.

Share Your Celebration

We encourage our members, supporters, and facilities across the country to join us in recognizing this important week.

📸 Take photos
🎥 Capture videos
📝 Share your stories

Post your celebrations on social media and be sure to tag CPOF so we can help share your message and highlight the incredible work being done nationwide.

Let’s make our presence so strong, so unified, and so visible that it’s impossible to overlook the impact of corrections.

Taking Care of Our Own

National Correctional Officers and Employees Week is more than a recognition—it’s a reminder.

A reminder of the sacrifices made.
A reminder of the commitment carried.
A reminder that no one in this profession stands alone.

To all correctional officers and employees—past and present:

We see you.
We thank you.
We stand with you.