A new study led by Harvard University researchers finds that Michigan's prison education program reduces recidivism rates.
The IGNITE (Natural and Intentional Growth of Inmates Through Education) program, which began in 2020 at the Genesee County Jail, provides individualized education programs to nearly everyone in the jail each day.
The course's efforts go beyond just providing inmates with assistance in earning a GED.
“There are courses that teach practical skills, such as finance and nutrition, and even trades,” says Marcela Alsan of the Harvard Kennedy School.
Aslan said the curriculum has expanded to include classes in art, creative writing, mental health and mindfulness. ”
Researchers from Harvard University, Brown University, and the University of Michigan found a significant drop in the number of inmates who recidivate and return to prison.
“Some incarcerated individuals appear to be able to break the cycle of recidivism, which increases their chances of furthering their education and securing employment starting at IGNITE,” said Peter Hull, an economics professor at Brown University. said.
The study found that one month of participation in the program reduced post-release recidivism by 18% in three months and 23% in one year.
Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson launched the IGNITE program in 2020. The program has had a significant financial impact, he said.
“Here in Genesee County, it costs $67 a day to house an inmate. That's what everyone is paying,” Swanson said. “But if we can send fewer people to prison, everyone wins.”
The study also found that violence at the Genesee County Jail has decreased sharply since the IGNITE program began. Researchers found that an additional month in prison led to a 49% decrease in serious misconduct incidents each week, including fewer threats of violence and physical harm.
Swanson said similar programs have been established in prisons and jails in 20 states. He hopes to further expand the program to the rest of Michigan and the entire United States.
