Inmates can now earn GED at OCSD
Two Ozark County Jail inmates begin the orientation process of a new grant funded program that provides those incarcerated in jail here the opportunity to earn a GED. The program’s instructor is Stephanie Dearing, pictured at right.
The Ozark County Sheriff’s Department is currently rolling out a new program in which inmates of the Ozark County Jail can sign up to earn a GED.
“The services are on a want-basis. We will offer it, and those who would like to participate and further their education to fall back on when they get out are welcome to participate,” Sheriff Cass Martin told the Times.
The program, which also is being instated at the Douglas County Jail, is funded through a grant-funded program through Missouri State University. Stephanie Dearing is the class instructor, and the coursework can be completed on laptop computers that are provided to the inmates to use. The sheriff says the program length will vary based on how long it takes each individual to obtain the information to pass the GED test, likely six to eight months.
If an inmate who has begun the program is released from jail, he or she will be given instructions on how to complete the program at home if desired.