A Juvenile Probation Officer (JPO) works with youth from the time they are cited or charged with an offense, to the time they leave the juvenile justice system. JPOs work closely with law enforcement, social services, schools, and parents to help juveniles get back on track and become successful.

The JPO Academy is a 4-week course that is conducted at the Florida Public Safety Institute (FPSI) in Havana, FL.

To obtain the certification, candidates must complete two phases of training and successfully pass several certification exams.

Pre-Academy Training consists of computer-based, instructor-led, and field-based training
Academy Training consists of 160 hours of instructor-led training and a certification exam

Probation Academy Topics include: Professionalism & Ethics, Adolescent Development, Rehabilitative Justice, Trauma Informed Care, Mental Health & Substance Abuse, Suicide Prevention & Awareness, Effective and Interpersonal Communication, Personal Safety, Education Overview, Case Flow, Screening & Intake, Reporting Your Findings, Court Presentation, Community Assessment Tool (CAT), Probation, Youth Empowered Success (YES) Plan, Commitment and Aftercare, Stress Management & Wellness.

Students in the probation academy also participate in a mock caseload simulation that moves through the entire continuum from intake to aftercare.

If you are interested in applying for a Juvenile Probation, please contact the Chief Probation Officers in your county.

Training and Certifications