Big Sky Times

HELENA, Mont. – Joined by Department of Corrections (DOC) and Helena College leadership, Governor Greg Gianforte on May 8 celebrated the graduation of the first class of inmates participating at the Second Chance Pell Grant program at the Montana State Prison (MSP).

“By providing incarcerated individuals with the tools they need to succeed and thrive in the workforce, we’ll help them successfully reenter with critical skills, reduce recidivism, and make our communities safer and stronger,” Gov. Gianforte said.

Introduced at MSP last fall, the Second Chance Pell Grant program allows incarcerated individuals to participate in postsecondary education programs. Pell Grants are a form of federal financial aid available to students with financial need.

The U.S. Department of Education selected Helena College, Great Falls College, Montana State University Billings, and Dawson Community College to provide postsecondary instruction to incarcerated students at MSP.

“Every person who comes to us should leave with the opportunities and skills to never come back to us. Postsecondary education is one of the pathways we provide to help incarcerated individuals achieve success after release and limit the risk of recidivism. We’re extremely proud of the students who worked so hard to earn their certificates and are thankful to our DOC staff and partners in the education community who contributed to making this opportunity a reality for them and future classes,” said DOC Deputy Director Cynthia Wolken.

"Nine of the ten students who started the program in the fall graduated on May 8 and will be reentering their communities with a degree and job-ready skills. At Helena College, we pride ourselves on meeting students where they are and showing students from all walks of life that education is possible for them. Our collaboration with the DOC and MSP is a continuation of that mission,” Helena College Dean Sandy Bauman added.

Governor Gianforte heard from the graduates about the hands-on experiences and learned skills gained from participating in the program.

“I learned automotive skills and other communication skills needed for the potential workplace,” student Kyle McCommon said. “I would like to continue in automotive and the second year of the program at Helena College. This has been a dream of mine.”

“Now is just the beginning of new, exciting road for the rest of your lives. Each of you embody Montana’s great potential, know that the entire state is rooting for you,” Gov. Gianforte concluded in his remarks to the graduates.

Original source can be found here.