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Media Relations Office:
Perryville Inmates Make the Grade
Making the prison environment similar to the day-to-day requirements of every day living really paid off for 357 female inmates at the Arizona State Prison Complex-Perryville. All of them were recognized for their educational and work-based achievements, which will give them a “head start” as they eventually return to society to become civil productive citizens. In late June, the Arizona State Prison Complex-Perryville held their quarterly award ceremonies marking the accomplishments of inmates from the Santa Maria, Piestewa, San Pedro, Santa Cruz, and Brent Lumley Units. The inmates received certificates in the areas of mandatory literacy, GED and work training. They also received certificates for their contributions as teacher’s aides, helping other inmates achieve their educational goals. Correctional Education Program Supervisor Darold Graves said, “They are better persons, more prepared to function effectively in the workforce as productive citizens when they are released. It is very gratifying when you see some of them struggle, even wanting to quit at times, but finally persevering.” Developing the skills necessary for each inmate to succeed upon release in turn will help lower Arizona’s recidivism rate. This concept is part of Director Dora Schriro’s re-entry initiative. It is premised on the belief that life inside prison should resemble life outside prison and that offenders should acquire basic skills and the underlying values and habits characteristic of productive, law-abiding Arizona citizens. |
