Rebuilding Lives: A Resource for Education After Incarceration

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For individuals who have experienced incarceration, pursuing education can be a significant step toward healing and reintegration. Education not only reduces the risk of reincarceration but also opens doors to meaningful employment and personal growth. We recommend the article “Higher Education After Incarceration” by Kristen Scatton as a valuable resource to support this journey.

The Importance of Education
Education can serve as a powerful tool for transformation. As Scatton notes, “earning a college degree can be one of the best ways to move forward and decrease their odds of returning to prison.” By investing in education, formerly incarcerated individuals can build skills, gain confidence, and create a more stable and fulfilling future.

Educational Pathways
Scatton outlines several educational options for those who have been incarcerated:

Earn a GED: For individuals without a high school diploma, the GED provides an important starting point. Some prison programs offer supportive opportunities to help individuals prepare for and earn their GED, fostering a sense of achievement and direction.
First-Time College Students: With a GED or high school diploma, individuals can apply for associate or bachelor’s degree programs. The application process typically includes “a completed application, official transcripts, and an essay.”
Finish a Degree: If your college education was interrupted, you can explore re-enrollment at your previous institution or transferring to a new one. Knowing your options empowers you to take control of your educational journey.
Continue Education: Those who already hold an associate or bachelor’s degree can pursue advanced degrees, recognizing that “more rigorous application requirements” may apply. This can be an opportunity for personal growth and deeper engagement in a chosen field.

Navigating the Application Process
Scatton provides practical steps to help guide you through the application process:

Choose Your Field of Study: Reflect on your interests and aspirations while considering any systemic barriers that might affect access. Engaging with supportive mentors can help you navigate this important decision.
Research Colleges: Look for accredited institutions that prioritize trauma-informed support services for formerly incarcerated students. Scatton emphasizes that “accreditation status can affect the quality of education,” so informed choices are vital.
Prepare Applications: Gather the necessary documents and approach the process with honesty about your background. Remember, a history of incarceration may not disqualify a student, so a compassionate application process is important.
Explore Financial Aid: Completing the FAFSA is a key step for accessing need-based financial aid. Scatton highlights that “most formerly incarcerated students are eligible for need-based financial aid,” emphasizing the significance of financial support in your educational journey.

Alternative Paths
In addition to traditional college education, consider exploring trade schools, coding boot camps, and government work programs. These pathways can provide practical skills and help cultivate a sense of agency in your career development.

Support Resources
Several organizations offer valuable assistance, including:

CareerOneStop: Connects individuals with job opportunities and essential services in their community.
Restoration of Rights Project: Provides information on state-specific regulations affecting individuals with convictions.
Volunteers of America: Offers support services, including literacy training and housing assistance.
Apprenticeship.gov: A resource for finding apprenticeship opportunities that combine work and training.

Conclusion
Pursuing education after incarceration is more than just academic achievement; it’s about reclaiming your narrative and building a hopeful future. We encourage you to explore Kristen Scatton’s article, “Higher Education After Incarceration,” for more detailed information and resources that can guide you on this important journey. You can read the full article here.