The Power of Education and Second Chances

Written by Kaitlyn Nolan, First Literacy Marketing and Communications Intern

Did you know that April is Second Chance Month? This significant observance shines a light on the journey of those reentering the community after being incarcerated. Second Chance Month is an opportunity to emphasize the crucial role individuals, communities, and agencies play in supporting the safe and successful return of adults and youth to society. For many young individuals, a second chance represents not just an opportunity, but their first real chance to thrive.

A study from Emory University, found that ex-offenders who engage in educational pursuits, such as completing high school courses, significantly reduce their likelihood of returning to incarceration, with recidivism rates dropping to around 55 percent. This statistic underscores the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of reoffending.

Recently, we sat down with Michael, a participant in the Charlestown Adult Education Reentry Program funded by First Literacy. Michael’s journey is one marked by inspiration and resilience. Motivated by the story of a former Chelsea police officer who obtained his GED and is now a college professor, Michael is determined to pay it forward. Having walked the path himself, Michael is committed to guiding and supporting young individuals facing similar challenges. Through his own experiences, he understands the impact of education and mentorship on the journey to redemption and success.

A Chance to Break the Cycle

Read on to learn how education changed Michael’s life and why Second Chance Month is so important to him.

Q: How has education impacted your life?

Education, particularly with the support of Charlestown Adult Education, has been life-changing for me. It’s not just about gaining knowledge but also about the opportunities it has unlocked, and the great people I’ve met. When you feel that the people around you want you to win, the sky’s the limit.

Q: Why do you believe education is important for young adults reentering after being incarcerated?

Education is vital for young adults after incarceration as it provides us with the tools to rewrite our stories and pursue a better future. The lack of access to education within the system often leaves us at a disadvantage, but education offers a pathway to redemption and empowerment. It equips us with the skills we need to build stable lives and break free from our mistakes. Education is not just about academic learning; it’s about reclaiming our identities, challenging stereotypes, and proving to ourselves and others that we are capable of so much more. It’s a chance to create a new narrative for us—one of success, growth, and resilience.

Q: What did you find most challenging when you returned to the community after being incarcerated?

The most challenging aspect of returning to the community was facing the barriers that seemed to be everywhere. Getting a job was difficult because of my CORI. School was also a struggle, as I battled with feelings of doubt and uncertainty about my future. The worst was people’s inability to accept me as reformed or rehabilitated. Despite serving my time many people still held onto the old me which can discourage someone and make it challenging to rebuild our lives and contribute positively to society.

Q: How has the Charlestown Adult Education Reentry Program impacted your life?

Everything changed when I made the decision to pursue my GED and showed up at Charlestown Adult Education which I initially thought was a mistake. I met Lori, the director of CAE, who saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. Instead of judging me for my rough exterior, she and everyone at CAE welcomed me with open arms and provided me with the support and guidance I desperately needed. She gave me my shot and believed in me, allowing me to become a Case Manager for Charlestown’s Adult Education. CAE showed me I could flip the script and use what I learned through experience.

Q: April is Second Chance Month. The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) and Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice successful Assistance (BJA) describes this observance as a way to help individuals, communities, and agencies across the country recognize the importance of reentry and their role in supporting the safe reentry of adults and youth. What does Second Chance Month mean to you?

Second Chance Month means a lot to me because it highlights how crucial support systems are for folks transitioning out of incarceration. It’s a time to look back on the progress we’ve made and keep pushing for ongoing help for those trying to turn their lives around.

Q: What are some of your goals for the future?

As for my goals, I’m all about finishing up my degree in Human Services and working towards becoming a Youth Counselor. I want to use what I’ve been through and what I’ve learned to help young people, especially those going through tough times, overcome their obstacles and reach for the stars.

Education Is Powerful

Thank you, Michael! And thank you to all who believe in education as a pathway to a better future.

Recently incarcerated and court-involved/at risk youth (ages 16 – 30) are in desperate need of educational opportunities and resources to help them adjust to life outside of prison, prepare for next steps, and reduce the chance of becoming part of the alarming 40% recidivism rate in Massachusetts.

Education changes lives and First Literacy is proud to have provided two years of funding to the Charlestown Adult Education Youth Reentry Program.

To learn more about Michael’s story view the video below.

Check out more resources for Second Chance Month here.

To learn more about how First Literacy is changing lives through the power of education view our impact page. For more information about the Charlestown Adult Education Reentry Program funded by First Literacy, visit the Grant Funded Projects page and scroll down to 2022-2023 grant funded projects.