Postsecondary education in prison is linked to reduced recidivism rates, yet only 9% of people earn a credential while incarcerated, the report notes. Its authors contend that more research and access to prison education could have broad benefits.
“Ultimately, investing in the educational outcomes of incarcerated individuals serves the public good by providing people with the tools to reach their full potential, give back to their communities, and contribute to the democratic mission of our society, which in turn reduces crime and controls the cost of corrections,” they wrote.
