NCJ Number
188628
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 52 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2001 Pages: 2-3
Editor(s)
Carolyn Eggleston
Date Published
March 2001
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article describes the “Reaching Out the Write Way” fathering program implemented at the Stillwater Correctional facility in Minnesota which addressed the lack of a father figure in the home and family literacy.
Abstract
This article presents an innovative and cost effective manner for incarcerated parents to reach out positively to families using literacy. “Reaching Out the Write Way” is a program made possible by a grant from the Education Minnesota Foundation for Excellence in Teaching. The program came about to stimulate student interest in writing and address two major problems: the lack of a father figure at home and family literacy. The program was implemented in the Stillwater Correctional facility, a maximum-security facility in Minnesota, under the Adult Basic Education Literacy Program. The program provides children a tangible object the parent made, a book and also addresses family literacy. Both the Literacy teacher and inmate tutors (inmates who have at least a GED and completed tutor training) receive instruction in storybook writing and book making. Tutors pass their learned skills on to students (other inmates). Students are encouraged to write stories for their children, parents, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters on a computer using storybook software. Students volunteer to assist others with difficulties in the writing process. The Literacy teacher edits the completed story to keep the language close to what the inmates use in a normal home setting. Once the writing is completed, students make the books using ribbon, paper, glitter, buttons, etc. Many inmates have developed creative ways to make and decorate their books. When the book is completed, there is careful screening of inmate files for red flags, such as sex offenses, child molestation, before books are mailed. Overall, over 250 books have been mailed. The program has allowed inmates to learn how to connect with their families in positive and creative ways. References