The Sisyphus Comments

Mandatory Roll Call Reading Club

Most agency administrators and trainers recognize the value of conducting regular roll call training. However, the burden of preparing the lesson plans for these mini training classes usually falls on the patrol sergeant. Unfortunately, preparing roll call lesson plans is often low on the priority list during busy times and unfortunately, the roll call classes sometimes get lost in the shuffle. Well sergeant, it is time to start doing what all good supervisors should be do at times like this – delegate.

Instead of preparing lesson plans, why not start a mandatory reading club. All you have to do is require each officer on your shift to bring in an article that they think could have an impact on how your agency does business. It could be a legal update, a new community policing initiative or a case study from another agency. Have the officers take turns summarizing the articles and then discuss the information. Don’t forget to keep a record of your discussions, including a copy of all of the articles. Give the reading club a try and let me know how this idea works out for you.