Brian,
Several years ago two associations were created the Massachusetts Communications Officers Association (MCOA) and the Massachusetts Communication Supervisors Association (MCSA).
The MCSA created a 5 week Dispatch Academy wich in my professional is in the top 5 in the country. This academy covers every area LEAP, Basic Dispatch, Fire Dispatch, EMD, CPR, and more. So basicaly all a Dept has to do after is some OJT.
The SETB (Mass E911) now runs this academy. I would suggest all your Dispatchers old or new take it. I would also Suggest appointing and training someone as a Communications Training Officer (CTO) this is the Dispatch version of a FTO.
Keep your eyes put for a in-service program for Dispatchers. The MCSA and MCOA are working with the SETB right now on that.
Any Questions please feel free to email me.
Jeremie Meyer
Emergency Services Dispatcher
Camp Arifjan (Kuwait)
"Protecting Those Who Defend America"