Career Progression FAQs

COMMUNITY SUPERVISION

When am I eligible to participate in the program?    
For the Advanced level, you must:
•    Have at least 24 months of continuous service as a case-carrying, certified probation/parole officer.
•    Have received a “meets” or “exceeds” expectation on your overall VIP performance rating for the past year and maintain that performance level during the progression program.
•    Not have active disciplinary action (Note: Active documented counseling session requires approval by Judicial Division Administrator on a case-by-case basis).
•    Not be under investigation initially or during the progression program.
•    Maintain Criminal Justice Certification including annual in-service training during the progression program.

For the Senior level:
•    Meet the criteria listed for the Advanced level.
•    Successfully completed the Advanced level.
•    Have a minimum of 36 months of continuous service as a case-carrying, certified probation/parole officer.

Does my CPPO need to approve my participation?
Your CPPO does not need to approve your participation; however, they will verify your eligibility to participate. Your CPPO will receive notification of your interest in participation when you complete the Registration Smartsheet. 

Will I be forced to participate even if I don’t want to?
No. This is a voluntary self-initiated, self-paced program.

If I am under investigation, can I participate in the program?
You can’t participate while you are under investigation. If you have already begun the program, your participation will be paused until the matter is resolved.

If I have an active disciplinary action, can I participate in the program?
While your disciplinary action is active, you are not permitted to participate in the program. When the disciplinary action expires, you may continue the program.  

On my last annual performance evaluation, I received a “does not meet expectations”. Can I participate in the program?
When your annual performance evaluation is “Meets” or Exceeds Expectations,” you may then participate in the program.

Why is this worth my time?  What’s really in this for me? 
This program will:
•    Provide you opportunities to develop additional knowledge and skills.
•    Enhance your case management and leadership skills.
•    Build your interest in career development.
•    Prepare you to apply for leadership positions.
•    Earn recognition and a one-time payment upon completion.

Why are there two levels? Can I do both at once? I have been a PPO for longer than 3 years, can I start with the Senior level?
There are two levels: Advanced, for PPOs with a minimum of 24 months continuous service as a case-carrying PPO, and Senior, for PPOs with more than 36 months continuous service as a case-carrying NC PPO.  

You must complete the Advanced level prior to enrolling in the Senior level regardless of your longevity. Participants may only attempt one level at a time over a 12-month period, regardless of years of service. 

How do I start the program?
1. Submit the Registration form after completing the orientation in the LMS career progression page. 
2. Begin working through the Career Progression curriculum (assigned by your CPPO upon verification of your eligibility).

How long does it take to go through the program?
There is no defined timeframe to complete the program. However, if you do not begin activity in the program within 12 months of enrollment, the registration will be considered inactive. You may request an additional six months if needed.

How can I learn more about the program?
There is an orientation course in the LMS that will provide you with detailed information.  

Can I take classes during work time?
You may take your training classes during work time. Participation in this program must not interfere with your regular work responsibilities and should not result in overtime. It is expected that you will be able to complete your job duties and the training within your regularly scheduled 40-hour work week.

What do I do when I have completed all the training?
After completion of the required training, you will complete a Curriculum Self-Reflection Smart Sheet, where you make a projection about how you will use your new skills, knowledge and competencies. Your reflection will be reviewed by the Program Manager and, ultimately, a Regional Review Committee. The Regional Review Committee will meet with you in-person or virtually to confirm your completion of the progression program requirements and gather feedback about the program.   

Can I use my phone to complete the training?
Much of the required curriculum content can be accessed from any web browser. However, it is recommended to use a computer.

How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is self-paced. The Advanced PPO level includes 30 hours of coursework in LMS.  

What is the Review Committee?
Upon completion of the program, you will meet with a Regional Review Committee. The Committee will ask you to describe how the program provided you with additional skills, how you are able to apply these to your job and offer you a chance to provide any suggestions to improve the program.

When will I receive compensation after completion of the program? How much money will I receive?
Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive $1500 as a one-time payment (based on availability of funds; payment subject to taxes and retirement contribution). 

Will I get a raise?  Will my annual salary increase?
Because PPOs are on a legislatively mandated step-pay plan, your annual salary will not increase with this program.

What happens when I have competed the program?
You will receive recognition from the Deputy Secretary of Community Supervision, a one-time payment, a badge to wear on your uniform, and a framed certificate of completion. You will be publicly recognized for your hard work.

Who do I contact if I have questions about the program?
Email the Career Progression Program Manager:  Careerprogression@dac.nc.gov.