“Education gave me something to hold on to. It became the tool that helped me stay grounded, helped me see a future beyond the walls of prison. It’s not just about getting a degree or studying from books—it’s about having an opportunity to change yourself, to learn something that pushes you forward instead of pulling you back.”

“As a former Correctional Officer, I saw firsthand the negative impact of cutting college courses from our facilities. We cannot be taken seriously when we claim to want to reduce recidivism rates if we close off educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Restoring MAP grant opportunities for these individuals plays a big part in both reducing recidivism and in putting individuals on a path to success after returning to society.”

“People in prison often report to JHA that they want the chance to participate in education, or if they have had the rare chance, that it is the very best, most rehabilitative thing that has happened for them. The John Howard Association supports expanding education within our prisons recognizing that giving people access will improve environments inside as well as in home communities when this knowledge is shared. Providing restorative opportunity is a core value of our state and a smart investment.