Prisoner Reentry Institute: College-in-Prison Reentry Education and Reentry Coordinator

As part of the Criminal Justice Investment Initiative’s College-in-Prison Reentry Program, the CUNY Prisoner Reentry Institute was selected to serve as the program’s education and reentry coordinator.

The Prisoner Reentry Institute, in collaboration with the State University of New York, will receive approximately $2.37 million over five years. They will oversee the seven education providers’ reentry planning and offer technical assistance as needed; align course requirements across and develop articulation/transfer agreements between funded colleges; develop standards for prison education curricula in New York State; and exchange best practices and lessons learned among the education providers.

Providing education in prisons is crucial in preparing that person for a successful reentry into the community, reduce the rate of recidivism, and improve public safety. A study conducted by The Rand Corporation in 2013 ‎found that individuals who participate in prison education programs are 43% less likely to recidivate and return to prison, and 13% more likely to obtain employment after their release.

This investment will significantly increase the likelihood of successful reentry into the community thereby reducing recidivism rates across the state.

The investments under this initiative, along with the other initiatives being developed under CJII, form a comprehensive set of strategic investments that, together, will have a significant, lasting impact on public safety and justice reform in New York City.