Healing and reconciliation through education

By Dr. Kim Hunter Reed

Working in education has its highs and lows. However as I reflect on the most challenging moments, they are overshadowed by inspiring experiences that speak to the power of education.

Like many of you, I found the recent violence in Charlottesville and Las Vegas deeply disturbing. It was a stark reminder of the significant work that lies ahead in eradicating violence, hatred and racism in our county — even as we process the shocking fact that this is our reality in 2017. It’s easy to feel distressed by the climate in America today, but I am lucky to have constant affirmation of good things happening as I visit colleges and universities across the state. I am always proud to meet an exceptional student beating the odds, a fantastic faculty member or a campus leader relentlessly committed to student success.

But my recent visit to Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) was something more. I was looking forward, in the weeks after the Charlottesville violence, to learn about RRCC and their Gateway Program which helps formerly incarcerated individuals get on solid footing and pursue their education. I had observed similar programs at the federal level and was eager to learn more.

Prison education can transform our society and economy. Think about this: The U.S. incarcerates about 700,000 individuals each year, 40 percent of whom commit another crime within three years of release. However, according to RAND Corporation research, when you provide education and training, those former inmates are 43 percent less likely to recidivate and 13 percent more likely to secure employment after their release. That’s a clear policy win: lowering recidivism rates, improving public safety, boosting employability and in the long run saving taxpayers’ money.

RRCC’s Gateway program mirrors this model, putting the formerly incarcerated participants on a pathway to success. Upon their release, the students take college readiness courses that not only prepare them for academic challenges, but also teach strategies for navigating stress, addiction and relationship issues, which often hinder progress.

Paul and William were two Gateway Program participants who shared a special bond. Paul said the program has given him a fresh start as a citizen and parent. He fell in love with the early pre-college program, excelled and quickly enrolled in RRCC. Today, he is double-majoring in sociology and psychology and hopes to continue working for the Gateway Program when he graduates.

It’s a common success narrative for Gateway participants. According to the Colorado Department of Corrections, about 50 percent of Colorado’s ex-offenders find themselves back in prison within three years. Just eight percent of Gateway graduates have reoffended. Today, 75 percent of Gateway graduates are in school and 58 percent are working, according to a program evaluation conducted by the University of Denver.

William, known as “Tumbleweed” to his Gateway family, grew up among white supremacists who taught him to hate. He graduated high school illiterate and had trouble finding a job. For the next 30 years, he would be in and out of prison. He said his life began to change when he learned to read. Taught by two cell mates, black men, William experienced a transformation of self and of his lifelong beliefs about race. Today he’s writing a new chapter in his life and proud to call Paul, his African American classmate, his friend and brother.

After weeks of turmoil over the Charlottesville violence, sitting right in front of me was a clear example of the real power of education. Yes, education allows us to grow as individuals and expand our horizons. For some that growth includes confronting and conquering hate and bias as well.

Victor Hugo, a French poet and novelist, said, “He who opens a school door, closes a prison.” He’s right. Education allows us to make our society a bit more just, fair and free.

As I reflect on how to advance opportunity here in Colorado, I am grateful to have incredible examples, like this one, of the power of education to change hearts and improve minds.