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Commission on Accreditation for Corrections: Raising the Bar of Excellence

NCJ Number
185584
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 62 Issue: 5 Dated: August 2000 Pages: 98-101
Author(s)
Michael J. Youngken
Editor(s)
Susan L. Clayton
Date Published
August 2000
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The Commission on Accreditation for Corrections (CAC) has six program components, including both juvenile and adult areas, accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA).
Abstract
In partnership with the ACA, the CAC administers the only national program of accreditation for all components of adult and juvenile corrections. In developing an awareness and acceptance of accreditation in the field of corrections, the mutual efforts of the CAC and the ACA have been very visible. The mission of the CAC is to upgrade and improve practices and conditions in adult and juvenile correctional facilities and programs through an accreditation process that is based on a commitment to accountability, professionalism, and respect for basic human rights and that recognizes sound and effective correctional practices. The history of accreditation is reviewed, CAC's membership and the panel process that supports accreditation are described, and corrections standards are discussed in the context of the accreditation process.