SHAWANO, WI- As National Corrections Week is observed across the country, Shawano County Sheriff George Lenzner is taking the opportunity to honor the men and women who serve behind the walls—often unnoticed, but never unimportant.
“Corrections Week was actually established by President Ronald Reagan back in 1984,” Lenzner said. “He recognized the importance of thanking correctional officers for their service and their contributions to society.”
Lenzner described corrections staff as “the forgotten piece of law enforcement,” drawing parallels between their work and the often-unsung role of emergency dispatchers.
“They’re behind the scenes, but we couldn’t do our jobs without them,” Lenzner said. “They do a great job. They work in our community. They volunteer for a lot. They deserve recognition.”
The sheriff also shared that his own career began in corrections and dispatch—well before many of his current staff were even born, he joked. “I started in 1988,” he said with a smile. “Corrections is where I got my start.”
As part of the week’s recognition, Lenzner highlighted two staff members—April and Tony—who spoke about their careers in corrections.
Tony, who transitioned into the field after years in EMS, said the shift allowed him to help the community in a new way. “You’re dealing with more at-risk people,” he said. “But they’re good people to work with.”
April shared that working in corrections had always been a goal. “I always wanted to be in law enforcement,” she said. “I started in February 2018 and loved it. I’m still here.”
National Corrections Week is an annual opportunity to show appreciation for correctional officers and employees who play a vital role in maintaining safety and order within local detention facilities. Sheriff Lenzner encouraged the community to recognize and thank these professionals for their commitment and service.
“Corrections officers are law enforcement,” Lenzner said. “They matter, and they make a difference every single day.”
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