The National Institute of Corrections (NIC) concluded the blended learning Thinking for a Change 5.0 - Training for Trainers program on June 4, 2026. This training comprises a series of 12 interactive virtual sessions and a three-and-a-half day in-person advanced practicum to train new T4C trainers to use the newly released Thinking for a Change 5.0 curriculum with new training materials. NIC partnered with the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) to host the in-person training portion in Jackson, MS. Corrections professionals from other agencies were allowed to participate. Practitioners from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, Philadelphia Department of Corrections, Washington State Department of Corrections, and the U.S. Probation and Pretrial - District of New Mexico joined MDOC staff in a 70-hour training event that started on May 4, 2026. These 22 individuals from around the country successfully completed the training and now are able to deliver Thinking for a Change 5.0 Facilitator Training to other correctional staff.
The program was led by Evidenced Based Strategists, Inc. through a cooperative agreement with trainers Estial Lett, Wendy Drake, and T4C 5.0 author Reginald Prince.
NIC welcomed distinguished MDOC guests Deputy Commissioner of Institutions John Hunt and Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Finance Derrick Garner, who spoke to the participants about the importance of evidence-based programming and effective facilitation skills. MDOC Deputy Commissioner of Programs, Education and Re-Entry, Kelley Christopher also participated in the training.
The training received positive feedback from attendees. Many found the training relevant to their roles and gained new knowledge or skills. Participants praised the curriculum, with 100% agreeing to implement changes in their organization based on the training.
Photo Courtesy of National Institute of Corrections
