Indiana renews Ivy Tech partnership to provide inmate education

(INDIANAPOLIS) – People who are behind bars are getting more opportunities to gain skills to help them successfully reenter society. 

Governor Mike Braun announced a new 10-year agreement between the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) and Ivy Tech Community College.

The partnership features 140 Ivy Tech instructors who provide educational services to 6,500 incarcerated people in Indiana. 

The student receive career and technical training in programs that include welding, culinary arts, cosmetology and more, with opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications. Basic adult education in support of earning a high school equivalency diploma is also available.

“We have a responsibility to prepare people for life after prison and give them a real opportunity to succeed. Continuing this partnership with Ivy Tech is an important investment in that work,” said Governor Mike Braun. 

Officials said that workforce training ahead of release is proven to reduce the likelihood of reoffending.