June 2025 Edition
Momentum and Milestones: A Look Back—and What’s Ahead
Time is flying, and as we hit the halfway point of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on just how much ground we’ve covered together.
Since January, we’ve made historic strides. In March, WSCJTC earned national accreditation from IADLEST—achieving the highest score of any agency to date. That wasn’t just a checkmark; it was a benchmark, a testament to the dedication and integrity of our team and our commitment to raising the bar for law enforcement training nationwide.
We also officially opened our fifth Basic Law Enforcement Academy in Arlington, expanding access and opportunity in the Northwest corner of the state. This matters. It means shorter wait times and more chances for officers to train closer to home and their families. Right now, if you’re ready to attend the academy, we can get you in within 30–45 days.
We're also excited about the recent signing of House Bill 2015. This new legislation opens the door for agencies to receive critical funding to hire and retain officers. That’s good news for communities across Washington, and we’re ready to meet the demand. We have seats to fill, instructors in place, and a training philosophy that blends science, integrity, and community connection.
Looking ahead, we’re focused on finalizing our curriculum certification. We’ve worked closely with IADLEST to overhaul and streamline our materials—cutting unnecessary content while keeping what’s essential. It’s taken time and teamwork, and I’m deeply grateful to our staff who have embraced this challenge with focus and humility.
Five years ago, we were running just 10 BLEA classes annually. This year, we're on pace to run 29 classes across the state. We’re not only growing in size—we’re evolving in approach. And while change can be hard, it’s also necessary. We’re committed to moving forward, responding to the needs of today’s agencies and communities.
We’re also taking time this season to celebrate who we are—together. May was Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and June brings both Pride and Juneteenth. These months aren’t just about awareness; they’re about affirmation. In a time when the job is hard, we all need moments to pause, connect, and honor the people behind the badge.
Thank you to everyone who shows up every day with integrity, purpose, and a desire to lead this profession forward. We still have work to do— we’re just getting started.
— Monica