Reentry Lifeskills

January 16, 2023

GED Programs in Prison: How To Continue Your Education While Serving Time

A Prison GED Program is an educational program designed to help incarcerated adults get their high school diploma or GED. This program helps those incarcerated gain a credential that is valuable to increasing their employability after being released from prison. Most prison GED courses provide individuals with the skills and knowledge required to pass the GED exam and education about furthering their job prospects. Additionally, it can serve as an opportunity for those in prison to develop the critical thinking and social skills necessary for successful reintegration with society while instilling a sense of responsibility and self-confidence. Ultimately, these prison GED programs are incredibly beneficial to those incarcerated because they provide a chance to become productive members of society through education and employment opportunities when released from prison.

Some components of a prison GED program may include the following:

  • Academic courses that cover the four GED subject areas: mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts.
  • Test preparation materials and practice exams
  • Career and job readiness classes
  • Life skills, including conflict resolution, budgeting, decision-making, communication, and other topics relevant to a successful transition back into the community
  • Resources for post-release job and education opportunities

 

To get a GED while in jail, the incarcerated individual must contact the prison education director and inquire about enrolling in a GED program. A screening process may be required, or they may be placed on a waiting list before being accepted. Once enrolled, they will take the same classes available to any high school student, studying the same material and taking tests. Upon successful completion of the GED program, the incarcerated individual will be awarded a high school diploma equivalent as recognized by the US Department of Education.

By taking advantage of a prison GED program, those incarcerated can be equipped with the education and resources necessary to gain employment, further their education, and rebuild relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A: The benefits of a prison GED program include increased employability upon release, development of critical thinking and social skills, access to further education and job opportunities, and a sense of responsibility and self-confidence.
A: No prior education level is required to join a prison GED program. They will cover the same material as any high school student and provide test preparation materials and will be able to catch anyone up to the same level of academic preparedness.
A: It can be helpful to approach the conversation with your loved one from a place of understanding and empathy. Explain to them the benefits of enrolling in a GED program and why you think it will benefit them upon their release from prison. Be sure to offer them support and guidance throughout the process and express your pride in their efforts to gain a valuable credential.

What Does Reentry Lifeskills Offer?

Reentry Lifeskills is a non-profit organization that specializes in providing incarcerated individuals and those recently released from prison with the skills and knowledge necessary to reintegrate into society successfully. Through correspondence courses for inmates, our program provides instruction in areas such as anger management, cognitive awareness, employment, parenting, and other life skills topics. Each of these programs is designed to prepare those incarcerated for the challenges of reentry, so they can successfully build a life outside of prison.

The courses from Reentry Lifeskills operate with principles from the cognitive restructuring model of rehabilitation, which is geared towards helping the participant make more positive decisions and take responsibility for their actions. Because our thoughts drive our behavior, Reentry Lifeskills allows incarcerated individuals to learn and practice strategies for controlling their thoughts, emotions, and actions. This approach targets the most influential factors that prevent successful reintegration into society and promotes positive behavior change.

The top reasons why the family and friends of incarcerated individuals should consider Reentry Lifeskills are:

  • In-depth, comprehensive curriculum that teaches the essential skills for reentry success.
  • Materials are designed to fit the individual needs of each participant.
  • Courses for prisoners can be taken from anywhere in the world – no need to travel.
  • Tailored to the individual’s learning style and can be adjusted based on their progress.
  • All materials are provided by the program – no need to purchase additional supplies.
  • Upon completion of each course, participants will receive a certificate of completion.
  • Our team is available to provide support and guidance throughout the entire process.

 

With Reentry Lifeskills, there is never a question of “if” an incarcerated individual will find success in their reentry journey – it is only a matter of “when.” Select the courses that best fit the individual’s goals and help them get back on track for a successful future.


Incarcerated Individuals Matter Too


Referring to people in prison as “incarcerated individuals” instead of more traditional phrases like “inmates” or “prisoners” is a way to foster respect and create empathy. These terms evoke an understanding that incarcerated individuals are people with individual needs, experiences, and backgrounds that have caused them to come into contact with the criminal justice system. By referring to them with this respectful language, it can help shift public perception about those who are locked up, creating greater recognition of their humanity. Furthermore, it recognizes them beyond their offenses, which can often be forgotten in mainstream discourse. It can also remind us that we should focus more on rehabilitation and providing resources to support these individuals rather than allowing their labels to define them.


Contact Reentry Lifeskills Today


Reentry Lifeskills is committed to helping incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful future. Our team is here to answer your questions and provide the support necessary for each person’s individual journey. Contact us today to learn more about our courses and how we can help you or a loved one in the reentry process.

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