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Two women with an award
Left, Chief Probation Officer of San Bernardino County Tracy Reece, lauds Monica Hatcher, right, for her extraordinary contributions to corrections in leadership and dedication to education at the recent 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) awards ceremony.

Monica Hatcher, principal of the Central Valley Juvenile Detention and Assessment Center and the A.R.I.S.E. Secure Youth Treatment Facility, was recognized with the distinguished Tim Fitzharris Award at the 2024 Annual Chief Probation Officers of California (CPOC) awards ceremony. CPOC, an association representing all 58 counties in California, recognizes and celebrates leaders like Hatcher for advancing safety and rehabilitation. This esteemed award honors professional staff who have made extraordinary contributions to corrections, positively impacting individuals, communities and systems of care. Hatcher’s recognition highlights her two decades of service and her transformative impact on education within the juvenile justice system.

Monica Hatcher

“Monica’s leadership and dedication to providing quality education, and her consistent efforts to enhance technology access and implement innovative learning experiences have left an enduring mark on both youth and their families,” said Tracy Reece, chief probation officer of San Bernardino County. “She is a true gift for San Bernardino County and especially to the youth in our justice system who are working to get their lives turned around.”

Under Monica’s leadership, programs such as Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS) and STEAM labs featuring 3D printing have provided students with practical and creative outlets. She has also introduced therapeutic experiences, such as petting zoos, to foster emotional growth within detention facilities. “Monica’s unwavering dedication to transforming the lives of at-risk youth through education and her ability to create meaningful opportunities for growth and rehabilitation are truly inspiring,” said CPOC President and Tulare County Probation Chief Kelly Vernon. “Her work exemplifies the very best of what the Tim Fitzharris Award stands for, and we are honored to recognize her extraordinary contributions.”

Hatcher’s commitment to academic achievement is evident in her establishment of in-custody graduation ceremonies, a milestone celebrated by nearly 300 graduates under her guidance. Through her innovative and compassionate approach, Monica has left an indelible mark on the San Bernardino County Probation Department, and the lives of countless youth and families.


Additional County Update News – December 12, 2024