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New Year Message and Acceptance of the Presidency:
As we begin a new year, I want to start by saying thank you—for your confidence, your trust, and for giving me the privilege of serving as President of the California Correctional Supervisors Organization.
I am deeply honored and humbled by this responsibility. CCSO represents professionals who shoulder enormous responsibility every single day, leaders who ensure safety, integrity, and accountability within one of the most challenging environments in public service. Your work matters. Your leadership matters. And your voice matters.
I want to first recognize those who came before me. To our past presidents, board members, and representatives—thank you for your dedication, your sacrifices, and your vision. The foundation you have built allows us to move forward with strength and purpose. I also want to thank our members for stepping up, standing firm, and continuing to lead under pressure. You are the backbone of California’s correctional system.
We enter this new year at a critical moment. Our profession faces unprecedented challenges—staffing shortages, evolving policies, heightened public scrutiny, and the daily realities of maintaining safety and order in complex institutions. Yet through it all, correctional supervisors continue to lead with professionalism, fairness, and resolve.
As President, my commitment to you is clear.
I will advocate relentlessly for the safety, rights, and professional respect of correctional supervisors.
I will ensure our members have a strong and credible voice—not only in labor matters, but in policy discussions that directly impact our institutions, our staff, and the communities we serve.
I will promote unity and transparency within our organization, because we are strongest when we stand together—rank to rank, institution to institution.
I will uphold fiscal responsibility and responsible stewardship of our members’ resources, ensuring that every dollar entrusted to CCSO is used wisely, transparently, and in ways that strengthen our organization today while securing its future.
And I will prioritize leadership development, wellness, and support, because those who lead others must also be supported themselves.
This role is not about title, but it is about service. It is about listening to our members, addressing real concerns, and delivering real results. It is about protecting the integrity of our profession while preparing the next generation of leaders to step forward with confidence and competence.
To our partners and stakeholders, I extend a hand of collaboration. I believe in accountability, professionalism, and constructive dialogue. We are committed to solutions that enhance safety, fairness, and operational excellence throughout the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
To our members, please know this: I see you. I respect you. And I will never forget who I represent. Every decision I make will be guided by what is best for correctional supervisors and the critical role you play.
Together, we will face challenges head-on. Together, we will strengthen this organization. And together, we will continue to lead with integrity, courage, and pride.
Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your service. And thank you for allowing me the honor of serving as your President.
Respectfully,
Gilbert Valenzuela
President
California Correctional Supervisors Organization
IMPORTANT! KEEP YOUR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION CURRENT:
It’s crucial to keep your membership details up to date! Outdated information can prevent us from contacting you with important updates or accurately processing benefits, such as those for a beneficiary. Please take a moment to ensure your information is accurate and up to date—reach out to confirm today!
ANOTHER IMPORTANT REMINDER:
CCSO offers paycheck protection through the California Law Enforcement Association (CLEA),
providing peace of mind in the event of an accident or injury. Custody staff can enroll for $36 per
month, while non-custody staff pay $35 per month. For more information, please contact the CCSO
Office, and our CLEA representative will reach out to answer any questions.
At the most recent CLEA conference, it was voted to implement a rate increase of $0.50 beginning in
July 2026, with an additional $0.50 increase each July thereafter—unless a motion is made and
approved during the April CLEA conference to stop the rise.
Chapter Representatives: Please make sure your members are informed about this excellent benefit
that is available to all CCSO members.
*Please check out Facebook and Instagram to stay informed!
*Please check out Facebook and Instagram to stay informed!
