Conclusion

With the current gap in skills adding to the countless barriers upon reentry, formerly incarcerated adults are at a compounding deficit in their attempts to integrate back into society. It is important to equip incarcerated adults for reentry during incarceration with effective, empirically based rehabilitative programs. The findings of this report provide compelling evidence that completing a postsecondary degree or certificate and participating in job training while serving time, ameliorates the proficiency gap in skills with incarcerated adults. We also heard about how helpful this kind of education is, anecdotally, during our prison visits. For example, we heard one student say, “The teachers and staff in the college program treat us like humans. They treat us respectfully and it’s been a long time since I felt like this.” A second student said, “I can attest to that. I thought I wasn’t human ‘til I came here [part of the college program].”

Of the significant body of research on corrections, there is no empirical evidence to support a significant correlation between crime and punishment,¹ but rehabilitation is meaningful to both the individual and society.² Rather than “lockin’-em up and throwing away the key,” policymakers should acknowledge those who are incarcerated as human beings who will reenter society. Meaningful preparation during their time in prison will help them to successfully reintegrate.