Prison Education Programs Slash Recidivism Rates in Pennsylvania

Marjorie Jay writes about how education is proving to be the most effective tool in reducing recidivism and offering incarcerated people a real chance at a better future.

Just recently, in the Williamsport Sun-Gazette article, “Education is key factor in avoiding recidivism,” Pennsylvania Consortium for Higher Education in Prisons (CHEP) panelists reported it cost an average of about $60,000 a year to house a state prisoner. Pennsylvania has a 64% rate of recidivism.

Education as a Path to Change

62% of Pennsylvania prisoners haven’t completed high school. CHEP believes education is the key to reducing recidivism. Statistics show high school education courses in Pennsylvania prisons reduce recidivism to around 55%. Vocational prison training drops the rate to 30%. If a prisoner gets an associate degree, it’s 13.7%, if a prisoner can manage a bachelor’s degree, the rate is 5.6%, and for prisoners obtaining a master’s degree, the rate drops to 0%.

The Penn State-Muncy Tutoring Program

This is why the Penn State-Muncy Tutoring Program (PSMTP) is so important. Now that I have my high school diploma, educational opportunities become harder due to the length of my sentences. PSMTP allows me to continue improving my reading and writing skills for college and to keep pursuing education goals.

Being a part of this program, and getting my diploma, has made my heart set on going to college. PSMTP has kept me moving forward and doing more for myself. I wanted to show my family I can do better in my life. Now I’ve finished my #1 education goal in my life.

I got my diploma in April 2024. I couldn’t have done it without help from my tutor, Ms. Amy, the tutor instructor, Ms. R., and the person who believed in me, Principal Dr. Rider. They all gave me the courage to move forward, and now I’m working on going to college. Ms. R. says, “The success is increased confidence for the participants as well as numerous educational gain.” She states that some other prisons have expressed interest in PSMTP; however, she hasn’t heard about similar education programs in other states. Her goal is for it to continue and expand to other locations. But more funding would be needed for the programs to expand.

Why Expansion Matters

When looking at programs in prison, PSMTP is exceptional to those who have access to it. The education model should be expanded to allow greater participation. DOC should consider its expansion to all facilities.

The PSMTP facilitator says, “I think it’s an excellent program, and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

Want to read more? Don’t miss How Education Changed My Life in Prison for the Better

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