Kentucky Sees Surge in GED Attainment for Incarcerated Individuals with Focus on Education for All

Frankfort, Kentucky – Education for incarcerated individuals has seen significant growth in Kentucky, as evidenced by the recent statistics released by the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). From 2020 to 2024, 4,460 incarcerated individuals earned a GED, while enrollments in GED preparation classes rose sharply to 14,441.

KCTCS President Ryan Quarles stressed the importance of this initiative, stating, “When we say KCTCS is education for all, that’s exactly what we mean.” Quarles highlighted the state’s commitment to assisting those who lack a high school diploma, noting that enabling individuals to gain credentials is a critical priority for social reintegration and workforce readiness.

Maggie Price, director of student success at Maysville Community and Technical College, pointed out that educational programs not only empower inmates but also enhance societal outcomes by lowering recidivism rates upon release. “Research supports these reasons,” Price asserted, “as we are seeing more studies being published stating people are less likely to reoffend when they participate in educational programs during incarceration.”

In collaboration with Kentucky Adult Education, the fourteen KCTCS colleges provide GED classes within county jails and correctional facilities. Programs are designed to foster engagement among participants, who often take time to recognize the value of education. Cristina Marsh, adult education director at Jefferson Community and Technical College, noted the transformative impact of education on inmates’ self-perception and future employability.

Cynthia McGaha, director of adult education for Somerset Community College, emphasized the broader significance of these programs. “Even if inmates are serving longer sentences, they still may want their GED to set a good example for someone in their lives,” she said. She also commented on the community’s initial indifference toward inmate education, which shifts to support once informed about the positive outcomes associated with these programs.

The programs offered through KYAE not only provide free GED opportunities but also play a crucial role in setting educational goals for inmates. These opportunities are pivotal for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives post-incarceration. For more information on available programs, individuals are encouraged to visit the KYAE’s website.

As the approach to correctional education evolves, Kentucky continues to lead the way in providing meaningful learning opportunities for one of society’s most underserved populations.


Author: HERE Lexington

HERE Lexington

Recent Posts

Lexington Students Sue University Over Sexual Assault Records

News Summary The Kentucky Kernel has filed a lawsuit against the University of Kentucky, seeking…

15 hours ago

Bluegrass Region Unveils Festive Holiday Light Attractions for 2024

News Summary Lexington, Kentucky, is welcoming the 2024 holiday season with an enchanting array of…

15 hours ago

Growing Trend of Digital Access to Quality Journalism in London Reveals Shifting Reader Preferences

Digital Access to Quality Journalism on the Rise in London London is witnessing a growing…

15 hours ago

Trump Discusses Possibility of Lara Trump Filling Rubio’s Senate Seat in Florida

Palm Beach, Florida - Trump Talks Future Senate Appointment On a sunny Monday afternoon, President-elect…

15 hours ago

Madison Community Grieves after School Shooting Claims Two Lives, Including a 14-Year-Old Student

Tragedy Strikes Madison: Community Mourns Loss of Two Lives in School Shooting This week, the…

15 hours ago

Columbus Celebrates Ohio State’s Dominant Playoff Win Amid Growing Concerns Over Lopsided Matchups

Columbus Reflects on Playoff Blowouts and Buckeye Brilliance So, here we are in Columbus, Ohio,…

15 hours ago