NCJ Number
154427
Date Published
1993
Length
150 pages
Annotation
This report presents findings on the design, implementation, and outcome of Washington State's Reintegration Project (RP), which integrated education, employment readiness, employment, and transition services for inmates at three State institutions.
Abstract
RP's primary objectives were to integrate academic and vocational education to prepare offenders for private-sector jobs inside the prison and after release, as well as to demonstrate the integrated approach to correctional staff from other States. The program was developed in partnership with the Class I private employers inside the institutions. A key element was a concentrated focus on business expectations of workers and acceptable work behavior. The Class I employers provided jobs for offenders to apply and continually enhance their skills and work behavior while still in the institution. Initially, participants were assessed on their educational level, job skills, interests, aptitudes, and treatment needs. Programming priorities were identified for the offender's time in the institution, and a preliminary release plan was completed. Individual plans were modified throughout the program as enrollees developed increasingly realistic options. Case planning was followed by a "Learning to Learn" module that enabled offenders to identify their own learning and behavioral style. Offenders were then involved in a unique component that merged behavioral assessment and changed with employer expectations. The report concludes that the objectives of the RP in integrating academic, vocational education, and work to prepare participants to find and retain employment were largely accomplished at the demonstration sites. Appended supplementary information