“ I tell students that getting your GED is your first job , then the door will open for further opportunities , trade school or college .”
ABE as a beacon of hope
In Minnesota , a groundbreaking approach to rehabilitation and reintegration is emerging through Adult Basic Education ( ABE ) programs offered within the confines of local jails . These programs are proving to be a vital tool in breaking the cycle of incarceration by providing inmates with educational opportunities that extend far beyond their time behind bars .
Across Minnesota , ABE programs bring classrooms and instruction to learners while serving in correctional facilities . Metro North ABE teacher , Donna Escobedo , teaches in Anoka County Corrections and the Anoka Workhouse .
“ I really try to create a normal school experience for students ,” said Escobedo .
Instead of focusing solely on punitive measures , there is a growing recognition of the importance of addressing the root causes of criminal behavior , which often include a lack of education and limited job prospects .
“ I tell students that getting your GED is your first job , then the door will open for further opportunities , trade school or college ,” added Escobedo . “ Not everyone clicks with the program , but the ones that do really work at improving their education and make great strides .”
Metro North ABE provides instruction in four correctional facilities across our consortium : Sherburne County Jail , Isanti County Jail , Anoka County Jail , and Anoka County Workhouse . One of the key advantages of offering ABE programs within jails is that it tackles the issue of recidivism head-on . Inmates who participate in education programs are significantly less likely to reoffend upon release .
“ I have four or five students getting their GED right now ,” said Escobedo . “ For anyone who goes through the program , there is a chance to come back to class and have their name up on a plaque . We often show students other talents , like drawings or videos they made .”
By providing inmates with a chance to better themselves through education , these programs actively contribute to safer communities and reduce strain on the criminal justice system .
The ABE programs also cater to a wide range of educational needs . Inmates have the chance to improve their literacy , numeracy , and language skills , ensuring they are better
“ I tell students that getting your GED is your first job , then the door will open for further opportunities , trade school or college .”
2 equipped to reintegrate into society upon release . Beyond the basics , many programs also offer vocational training , equipping inmates with practical skills that can lead to stable employment opportunities post-release .
In addition to academic instruction , Metro North ABE partners with Anoka County Job Training Center to implement the Integrated Reentry and Occupational Cohort ( IROC ) program , which is designed to prepare individuals under correctional supervision for career success . Individuals may be residing in the community or in the Anoka County Workhouse , on court-ordered probation or on supervised release from prison . The goal is to assist individuals with their transition from correctional supervision to the community by preparing them for entry-level positions in two of our pathways : Class B Driver ’ s License and Welding .
Furthermore , ABE programs within jails foster a sense of hope and self-worth among inmates . Education has the power to transform lives , and by giving inmates the chance to learn , grow , and set positive goals for themselves , these programs instill a sense of purpose that can make a world of difference in their post-release lives .
The collaborative nature of these programs is also noteworthy . Many ABE programs in Minnesota jails are partnerships between correctional facilities , educational institutions , and community organizations .
“ I have to tell them while you are in adult education here , you can continue after this class .” Escobedo said . “ There are ABE programs across the state . I often help students make connections to other ABE programs as they get close to the time when they get out .” This cross-sector collaboration not only ensures the quality of education but also helps to connect inmates with valuable community resources and support networks upon their release .
ABE programs provided within Minnesota jails are a beacon of hope for inmates seeking a second chance at life . By addressing educational gaps and providing vocational skills , these programs empower inmates to break free from the cycle of incarceration and build brighter futures . As this approach gains momentum , it has the potential to reshape the landscape of criminal justice in the state , emphasizing rehabilitation , education , and successful reintegration .