Kentucky Sees Surge in GED Graduates Among Incarcerated Individuals as Educational Opportunities Expand

VERSAILLES, Ky. — A significant educational milestone has been achieved in Kentucky as the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) reports that 4,460 incarcerated individuals earned their General Educational Development (GED) diplomas between the years 2020 and 2024. This achievement coincides with a substantial increase in enrollment for GED preparation classes, which grew to 14,441 during the same period.

KCTCS President Ryan Quarles emphasized the importance of these educational programs, stating, “When we say KCTCS is education for all, that’s exactly what we mean. Supporting those who lack a high school diploma is a key priority for our state and workforce.” Quarles further mentioned that equipping individuals with GED credentials benefits not only the individuals but also their families and communities when they reintegrate into society.

The societal advantages of education for incarcerated individuals extend beyond personal gain. As Maggie Price, director of student success at Maysville Community and Technical College, points out, studies indicate that educational programs reduce recidivism rates. “Many people who are incarcerated will be released one day, and they will be our neighbors,” she stated, underscoring the necessity for education to foster community involvement.

KCTCS operates through fourteen colleges that serve as providers for Kentucky Adult Education, the state agency that manages the GED program. Classes are conducted at various county jails and prisons, making education more accessible. Notably, Somerset Community College has been recognized by the Kentucky Adult Education (KYAE) for consistently meeting performance targets. Cynthia McGaha, the college’s director of adult education, highlighted the program’s role in goal-setting, reflecting, “The GED program helps students set goals and teaches them the amount of work it takes to achieve it.”

Even incarcerated individuals serving lengthy sentences seek out their GEDs, hoping to set a positive example for family members or loved ones. With over 100,000 annual enrollments, KCTCS stands as the largest institution of postsecondary education in Kentucky, reinforcing its commitment to educational accessibility for all residents, including those within the correctional system.