#USA #Plano #Securus Technologies #iCEV #Tooling U-SME

Expanding Educational Access for Incarcerated Individuals

Securus Technologies, a leading innovator in corrections technology, has announced an ambitious expansion of its educational initiatives aimed at supporting the successful reintegration of incarcerated individuals into society. By enhancing the capabilities of its secure tablet platforms within correctional facilities, the company seeks to provide greater access to career and technical education (CTE), workforce development resources, and digital literacy tools. This strategic move not only aids in reducing barriers faced by former inmates but also promotes safer correctional environments by providing constructive activities for inmates.

The Employment Challenge for Former Inmates

Statistics reveal a grim reality for individuals reentering society: nearly 63% struggle to find stable employment within a year of their release. Compounding this issue, having a criminal record can decrease the chances of securing a job by approximately 60%. The economic impact of this underemployment is significant, costing the U.S. economy between $78 and $87 billion annually according to the National Reentry Resource Center.

Educational programs tailored for correctional facilities present a beacon of hope. Research from the RAND Corporation has shown that participation in these programs significantly lowers the likelihood of recidivism; inmates who engage in educational pursuits are 43% less likely to return to prison and 13% more likely to find work after their release. Therefore, investing in comprehensive education is not just beneficial but crucial for fostering economic growth and facilitating the successful reintegration of justice-involved individuals into the workforce.

The Securus Education Platform

Launched in 2022, the Securus education platform has transformed into a robust digital ecosystem, offering diverse learning pathways ranging from adult basic education to college courses, as well as industry-recognized certifications. Key features of the platform include:

• - Self-Paced Learning: Modules customized to the needs of both facilities and individual learners, allowing for tailored education experiences.
• - Accessibility Options: With features like touch-to-speech and support for over 60 languages, the platform ensures inclusivity.
• - Incentives for Engagement: Participants can earn rewards like call minutes and commissary items as they make progress through educational modules.

Kevin Elder, President of Securus Technologies, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, "Secure technology is a game-changer for sustained success, particularly when it delivers vital education and career training to incarcerated individuals." The company reports a staggering 10.8 million hours of learning, with 42% focused on career and financial readiness, arming individuals with essential skills for employment.

Partnerships Enhancing the Educational Experience

At the heart of Securus' educational offering lies a commitment to practical, real-world learning. The platform collaborates with three esteemed organizations—iCEV, Tooling U-SME, and Teknimedia—to deliver quality educational resources. Each of these partners brings unique strengths to the table:

• - iCEV: A nationwide leader in career and technical education, offering over 200 courses and 19 nationally recognized certifications. Their curriculum aligns with industry standards while developing soft skills vital for career readiness.
• - Tooling U-SME: Specializes in workforce development that addresses high-wage, in-demand jobs through apprenticeships and nationally recognized certifications. Their robust, user-friendly course offerings provide critical pathways for success in manufacturing careers.
• - Teknimedia: Focuses on digital literacy and workplace readiness training, covering essential skills such as resume writing and interview techniques, tailored for correctional environments.

Dusty Moore, CEO of iCEV, emphasized the transformative power of this collaboration, stating, "Expanding access to education and skills training for incarcerated individuals gives them an opportunity to be productive, successful individuals upon reentry."

Looking Ahead

Securus Technologies is committed to continually expanding its education offerings, utilizing innovative strategies and partnerships to reshape rehabilitation. By equipping incarcerated individuals with vital skills and knowledge, Securus aims to create a pathway to self-sufficiency that extends beyond prison walls, supporting economic stability and community safety. For more information about their initiatives, visit www.securustechnologies.com.

As society progresses toward a more inclusive approach to rehabilitation, the impact of technology in facilitating education and workforce readiness can lead to significant positive outcomes, not only for former inmates but for the broader community as well.