Inmates Go Back To School In Monmouth County

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — For the last 18 months inmates from the Monmouth County Correctional Institution have been studying to get their GED through a program run by the Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission, Sheriff Shaun Golden announced.

The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Correctional Division continues to strive to assist inmates with a brighter future and has given nine inmates the opportunity to go back to school.

“The inmate’s dedication to obtaining their diploma during the COVID-19 pandemic speaks volumes. They worked hard and stayed focused on their goals during an unprecedented time,” Golden said.

On Wednesday, March 30 all nine inmates graduated from the program and received their high school diplomas from the State of New Jersey during a special ceremony at MCCI.

“Education is the key to a productive future,” Golden said. “No one can take that knowledge away. I’m hopeful these graduates will use it as they move forward and transition back into society for positive change.”

The GED program at the jail began in 2007. With the most recent graduation, the total number of graduates now stands at 211. Inmates study math, science, social studies, reading, and writing five days a week.

The online program is available all year.