In this article I reflect on my experiences as a previously incarcerated individual being involved in theatre performance for the first time. I reflect on how my involvement in arts and education programmes in prison made me aware of the larger structures of Whiteness that were embedded in the educational and arts contexts that I found myself in…

Examines the role of correctional education programs in America; suggests that correctional education has maintained a limited perspective regarding the functions that education may serve. Argues that by using the Justice Model, programs would more effectively improve quality of life in prisons and perhaps reduce recidivism. (JOW)

Describes how indeterminate sentencing creates unique adaptations on the part of inmates, creating different kinds of difficulties for the staff. Questions whether this type of sentencing facilitates rehabilitation any more than traditional mandatory sentencing. (JAC)

This article presents a conversation with Agnes Wilcox, Executive Director of Prison Performing Arts in St. Louis, Missouri, about Prison Performing Arts. Although the average person might balk at the notion of interacting with prison inmates, finding it intimidating, worrisome, or self-sacrificial, for Wilcox, Prison Performing Arts is a…

Evaluation of the first Texas correctional substance abuse program indicated that although recidivism was significantly reduced for offenders completing the program, a large number did not complete it and had recidivism rates comparable to those not participating. This problem and others caused the Texas Legislature to decide against expansion.…

Although many correctional education studies have identified various treatment programs as being effective for reducing recidivism, few, if any, of these studies appear to be above reproach when assessing their methodological vigor. This paper highlights the shortcomings in the current post-treatment quasi-experimental design primarily used to…

As an illustration of cases where existing programs and facilities do not meet individual special needs, the article traces the chronology of a behavior disordered male from special class placement in elementary school through his eventual incarceration in the Nebraska penal system. (JW)

The outcomes of deinstitutionalization programs for criminals and the mentally ill have not matched expectations. Community alternatives have become extensions of the penal system. For the chronically mentally ill, granting the negative right of freedom from organized interference has often meant denial of the right to care and attention.…

This document provides a transcript of one of three panels held at a Manhattan Institute conference in June 2006. In this panel, the issue of reconnecting a certain segment of disadvantaged men into the workforce is discussed. John McWhorter explains that the Manhattan Institute has been instrumental in forging the reform of welfare legislation,…

Four hearings were held during 1979 by the National Advisory Council on Vocational Education (NACVE) to determine the status of vocational education in correctional institutions. Testimony from 106 witnesses from 27 states led to the overall conclusion that the current level and quality of correctional vocational education is not adequate to…