The Oregon Way
The Oregon Way represents the Oregon Department of Corrections’ commitment to building a healthier correctional culture by encouraging positive interactions between staff and adults in custody. The approach emphasizes communication, respect, staff wellness, and engagement to create safer institutions and better outcomes for those in custody preparing to return to their communities.
Three Foundations of Correctional Security
Dynamic Security
Staff build professional relationships with adults in custody through regular interaction and communication.
Static Security
Static security refers to physical security elements such as perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, locked doors, and secure facility design.
Organizational Security
Organizational security includes the policies, procedures, and training that guide correctional operations.
Key Elements of the Oregon Way
Staff Wellness
Supporting employee wellness helps create healthier workplaces and stronger institutions.
Positive Engagement
Encouraging respectful communication improves safety and reduces conflict.
Resource Teams
Specialized teams help individuals transition out of restrictive housing.
Normalization
Creating environments that resemble community life helps prepare individuals for successful reentry.
Learn More
Resource Teams
Resource Teams work with individuals in restrictive housing to increase engagement and help them transition safely back to general population.
Culture Change
The Oregon Way represents a shift toward healthier correctional cultures emphasizing respect, communication, and staff leadership.
Goals of the Oregon Way
- Improve staff wellness
- Reduce restrictive housing when possible
- Encourage positive staff-AIC interactions
- Support rehabilitation and reentry
- Create safer institutions
Publications
Revolutionizing Corrections Through OSP's Resource Team
Read Article → How Peer Support Transformed a Crisis at OSP
View PDF → Videos
Measures of Success
- Improvements in officer health and well-being
- Increased job satisfaction
- Reductions in staff turnover
- Reductions in restrictive housing
- Improvements in recidivism outcomes
Resources
For questions or additional information please email
DOCOregonWayInfo@doc.oregon.gov