Leadership in Police Organizations TM (LPO) and Leadership in Public Safety Organizations TM (LPSO) programs
If you or your department is looking for a leadership development program that is research and behavioral science based and which focuses on the theory of dispersed leadership, IACP has the program for you.
In late 2000, IACP began a multiyear effort to identify and develop a leadership training program specifically designed for the law enforcement community. After subsequently convening an academic summit with participants from over 60 law enforcement and academic institutions, devoting significant efforts to curriculum development, and piloting the program, IACP launched the Leadership in Police Organizations TM (LPO) program. From 2006 to 2009, over 180 large and small law enforcement agencies at the state, local, and federal level, participated in the LPO program. Approximately ninety percent of the departments also arranged for a follow on train the trainer to develop their own leadership instructors to sustain the program locally.
Why is the program so different? The distinguishing feature of the IACP three-week model course, typically taught one week a month over three months, is a focus on the systematic development of leaders at all levels of an organization- the concept of “every officer a leader.” In the 21st century, police organizations can no longer rely on a single or small group of leaders. To develop leaders, law enforcement executives must create a culture on their organizations that is supportive of dispersed leadership. This means establishing expectations that officers will take leadership actions at their levels or responsibility.
The three week course emphasizes applied learning; is very interactive and utilizes small group case studies, videos, role playing and class exercises to reinforce learning. Students are taught leader strategies for them to use in dealing with practical work place challenges. The course teaches participants the behavioral science theories to better understand how to lead individuals, groups, change, and organizations. Participants are challenges to use the theories and strategies taught to increase the motivation, satisfaction and performance within their organization and to support organizational change.
IACP also offers a train the trainer program of ten days for those departments wishing to develop their own instructors for continuation of the program at the local level. At the conclusion of the train the trainer, participants are given all the teaching materials they need to run the programs locally and are mentoring to set up the program with IACP’s assistance. IACP also offers one week customized LPO programs for field training officers, command staff and the specific needs of the department.
To obtain more information on bringing the LPO program to your department, please contact Jennifer Porter of the CPLT staff at 703-836-6767 ext 366 porter@theiacp.org or Roberta Dean at 703-836-6767 ext 261 dean@theiacp.org.