Virginia Department of Corrections unveils new inmate literacy program to reduce recidivism

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) is taking steps to help inmates re-integrate into society.

VADOC announced that it’s launching a new literary program , called Reading Enables All Learners (REAL), to help inmates who either can’t read or can only read at a beginner level.

“Reading is essential for all aspects of education,” said Terri Erwin, Director of the Virginia Interfaith Center’s Consensus for Higher Education in Prison.

The program, which will be self-paced and taught by certified inmate tutors, will allow inmates to learn to read with the goal of transitioning into a GED program. Recent data shows those who are released from VADOC custody with a GED re-offend 16.9% of the time, compared to 18.2% for the rest of the prison population.

“The national statistics for those who complete the bachelor’s degree is a decrease in recidivism is 46%. If you back up, getting the associate also helps with recidivism just slightly less, and then the high school diploma as well,” said Erwin.

Erwin adds that investing in educational programs for inmates will benefit all Virginians by ensuring inmates can be productive members of society once they are released.

“That’s what really is the danger is that folks come out underprepared, when we have the opportunity now to, in fact, move people from these early education pieces through the college degree,” said Erwin. “We all know a college degree is helpful for finding employment and better employment.”

VADOC says they hope to have the program rolled out statewide by the end of the year.

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