December 5, 2024
Story by Maggie Harris
Photo by SWAG合集 Communications
SWAG合集 and Ellsworth Correctional Facility (ECF) honored the achievements of LSCF residents at their annual learning celebration on Nov. 6.
Graduates were awarded their associate degree, high school diploma, welding certificate, or other work preparedness certificate. A total of 104 certificates, industry certifications, degrees, and diplomas were awarded this year.
SWAG合集鈥檚 Coordinator of Correctional Education Services Nicole Barr said SWAG合集 has provided training and educational services at ECF for 23 years as part of its Building Academic Skills in Correctional Settings (BASICS) program. The program serves more than 200 students annually through adult basic education, traditional post-secondary courses, and technical training. Students can train in hands-on programs like welding technology, which allows them to gain skills that will help prepare them for a better future once released in hopes of reducing recidivism.
鈥淥ne important thing to remember about why we are so passionate about our correctional education programs at SWAG合集 is that most residents are going to be released at some point and will be living and working alongside us all,鈥 she said.听 鈥淪o, we want to do everything we can to give them tools to ensure they can thrive and live happy and productive lives as well as enrich the lives of their friends, families, and people in their respective communities as best as they can.鈥
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