LOS LUNAS, N.M. (KRQE) – For the third year in a row, the state is seeing more inmates improving themselves while in prison by going back to school.
“I got my [GED] in December,” said Jacob Velasquez, an inmate at the Central New Mexico Correctional Facility (CNMCF).
“I’ve been in that college program for about three years now,” said Richard Lewis, another inmate.
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Jacob Velasquez and Richard Lewi are two men counting down the days until they are released. Velasquez will be out in the next three months, Lewis in two weeks. Both are leaving with more than they came into prison with, an education. “At first it was hard, and then I just worked my way through it, and now I probably end up going to college after my release as well,” said Lewis.
For one hour a day, four days a week, inmates who don’t have a high school diploma or a GED are required to go to classes and obtain one before their release, no matter how long it takes. And even though it’s mandatory, more inmates have been eager to complete it and move up into college programs. “Our inmate population is determined, excited, motivated. They’re looking forward to opportunities that they’ve never had before with this leadership and guidance,” said Jessica Vigil-Richards, Warden of CNMCF
Three years ago, the number of inmates graduating with their high school equivalent certification was 184. Last fiscal year, it jumped to 266. “It’s giving an opportunity they’ve never had before to leave with a post-secondary degree or leave with a trade certification that they can leave out and actually go to work,” said Byron Brown, Director of Reentry for the New Mexico Corrections Department.
Instructors say that although these inmates missed out on their high school education… They prove it’s never too late. “You know, they get excited when some of the vocational programs come along. And so to be able to participate in those, a lot of times they have to complete their GED,” said Marsha Clines, an educator at CNMCF.
“The education programs here are very important if you ask me. So, whether you want to, for whatever reason, but I believe these education programs are very important,” said Lewis.
The New Mexico Corrections Department said that they are looking to expand as well as offer more programs for other college courses.
The courses are offered in collaboration with the state’s Higher Education Department. Higher Ed said they also had 51 students receive postsecondary degrees and certificates last year.
The New Mexico Higher Education Department is a proud partner and supporter of the Reentry Division at the New Mexico Corrections Department, which administers one of the largest state-funded adult education programs. Our partner agency not only surpassed the state’s annual target for graduates, these students achieved the highest number of high school equivalency credentials in any of our funded programs. Both of our departments support post-release employment success among students in correctional facilities. Additionally, students earned 51 postsecondary degrees and certificates last year — including 25 associate degrees, five bachelor’s degrees, one master’s degree and 20 vocational certificates.
In the New Mexico Corrections Department’s adult education programs, we are supporting the development of integrated education and training programs that lead to industry-recognized job credentials. By empowering every student, no matter where they are in their journey, we help them achieve their goals and strengthen New Mexico communities. Their dedication and resilience in seeking educational pathways are reminders that adult education is an important resource for all New Mexicans.
Stephanie M. Rodriguez, New Mexico Higher Education Secretary
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