Research on Prison Education & Reentry
My research explores the impact of correctional education and reentry programs on incarcerated individuals. I have evaluated federally funded initiatives in jails and prisons, with a focus on employment, recidivism, and economic outcomes, offering practical insights to improve correctional education policy and practice.
Are Schools in Prison Worth It?
A meta-analysis of 152 estimates from 79 studies shows prison education—especially vocational and college-level—significantly reduces recidivism, increases employment and wages, and offers a strong return on investment for taxpayers.
How States Can Improve Education Programs in Prisons
This policy brief outlines four evidence-based strategies states can use to enhance prison education systems, including automatic enrollment and sentence reduction incentives, to improve post-release outcomes and maximize public investment.
Futures Reclaimed
This report pairs national findings with on-the-ground case studies from prison education programs, highlighting how strategic reforms and educational access help incarcerated individuals rebuild their lives and reintegrate successfully.
State Ranking of Prison Education Programs
Using nationwide data, this brief ranks each U.S. state based on the availability and quality of prison education programs, showing a strong correlation between supportive policies and successful educational outcomes behind bars.
