#United States #Plano #Securus Technologies #iCEV #Correctional Education

Securus Technologies Marks National Education Month

In November, Securus Technologies, a crucial player in correctional facility technology, is taking the opportunity to honor National Education Month. This year's focus is on the successful partnership with iCEV, a leader in career and technical education (CTE). This collaboration seeks to enhance the learning experience for incarcerated individuals by providing them access to valuable resources aimed at career readiness and digital education, essential tools for creating opportunities after release.

The Importance of Education in Rehabilitation

Education has proven itself to be one of the most effective methods for reducing recidivism rates and facilitating successful reintegration into society. Research by the University of Michigan Law School indicates that having a criminal record can drastically suppress job opportunities, sometimes diminishing them by as much as 60%. Alarmingly, around two-thirds of released individuals continue to face unemployment a year later, as reported by the Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Conversely, findings from the RAND Corporation demonstrate a potent link between educational programs and lower recidivism rates, with incarcerated individuals who engage in such initiatives being 43% less likely to re-offend and 13% more likely to secure employment. Access to education is not merely a personal benefit; it fundamentally contributes to the safety and well-being of communities.

Securus’ Commitment to Education

Recognizing this critical need for educational opportunities, Securus launched its secure education platform in 2022. This digital solution aims to bridge the gap in access to learning for incarcerated individuals, evolving into a seamless digital ecosystem for education that supports users from basic adult education to advanced college courses and certifications crucial for workforce preparation.

Through robust partnerships with 25 colleges and universities utilizing Securus’ learning management system, Lantern, alongside renowned educational content providers such as Edovo and iCEV, Securus has recorded over 17 million learning hours. The educational experiences provided are personalized and self-paced, allowing learners to develop essential technical and soft skills vital for their future careers.

Kevin Elder, President of Securus Technologies, emphasizes the role of education in fostering better futures: “Education is one of the most powerful equalizers, and one of the most transformative tools for rehabilitation. Our partnership with iCEV is breaking down barriers to learning and helping people prepare for a different future, one built on skills, confidence, and opportunity.”

iCEV’s Tailored Education Solutions

The partnership with iCEV provides a specialized Corrections Curriculum designed to fulfill the unique requirements of both educators and inmates. Offering over 200 courses across various fields—ranging from agricultural science to business and marketing—these programs support fair chance hiring initiatives and equip learners with industry-valued credentials.

With features such as automated reporting tools and specific modules like “Gap Pack Soft Skills Training for Reentry” and “90 Days to Release,” the curriculum includes assessments and readiness programs for individuals preparing to transition back into the workforce. Additionally, peer mentorship through programs like Tutor Training facilitates a culture of learning and support among inmates, while customizable courses ensure alignment with local job markets.

Moreover, iCEV’s platform is optimized for use on Securus tablets, featuring necessary accessibility tools, text-to-speech functionality, and multilingual support, ensuring inclusivity for all learners.

Dusty Moore, CEO of iCEV, encapsulates the impact of educational investment: “When we invest in education, we invest in opportunity. Through our partnership with Securus, we're expanding access to knowledge that empowers lifelong success.” Since their entrance into corrections education, iCEV has enabled over 5,000 incarcerated individuals to obtain industry-recognized credentials.

Conclusion

As Securus Technologies celebrates National Education Month, this partnership with iCEV exemplifies the positive outcomes of providing educational opportunities within correctional facilities. The initiative not only responds to the pressing need for workforce-ready skills among the incarcerated population but also fosters a safer society as individuals reintegrate into their communities armed with knowledge and newfound confidence. Education is indeed a powerful tool for transformation, unlocking doors to progress and reinforcing the foundations for stronger futures.