Our full conference site with speaker information and early bird pricing for registration will launch
June 1, 2023
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on prison education programs, which already face significant challenges due to limited resources, understaffing, and high turnover rates. The pandemic has forced many facilities to suspend in-person classes and workshops, making it difficult for incarcerated individuals to access education and skill-building opportunities. This disruption has not only limited opportunities for personal and professional growth, but has also hindered efforts to reduce recidivism rates by providing educational programming that can help individuals successfully reintegrate into society. Additionally, prison educators have had to navigate new challenges related to technology, such as limited access to devices and unreliable internet connectivity, which have made virtual education difficult. Despite these challenges, many prison educators have shown remarkable resilience and dedication, adapting their teaching methods to virtual formats, providing personalized instruction, and offering support to their students. By continuing to function within dysfunction, prison educators are making a significant difference in the lives of those in their care, providing opportunities for growth, and helping to reduce recidivism rates.