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Abstract: 

Beck summarizes testimony that was given at the November 29, 2012 hearing of the New York State Assembly's Corrections Committee on Educational and Vocational Programs in New York Prisons. He argues that despite the enormous potential of academic and vocational training for inmates, there have been significant reductions in program staff and resources devoted to these programs in recent years. These programs serve several positive functions (e.g., lowering reducing recidivism rates and providing a source of personal development for inmates) and Beck argues that the NY Department of Correctional and Community Supervision (DOCCS) should restore and increase funding to these programs in order to enjoy their benefits.

Keywords: vocational programs; general academic classes; higher education; inmate success

Affiliations:  1: Correctional Association of New York.