Investing in Prison Education Saves Taxpayer Dollars

Title: Policymakers Role in Expanding Prison Education Access

Authors: Jennifer Thomsen and Shytance Wren

Source: Education Commission of the States

A June 2025 report from the Education Commission of the States outlined ways state policymakers can expand access to prison education and, in turn, reduce recidivism and incarceration costs.

Policymakers’ Role in Expanding Prison Education Access summarized findings from an 18-month community of practice that included state education policy leaders, corrections officials, higher education prison program directors, policymakers, and researchers. The group highlighted key barriers incarcerated learners face and produced policy recommendations to address them.

Key findings include:

• Prison education saves money. Every dollar invested in prison education returns four to five dollars in reduced incarceration costs.

• Governance inefficiencies limit access. Poor coordination in prison education programs restricts opportunities for incarcerated learners and leaves policymakers without sufficient data to improve programs. One proposed solution is to review which level of government—such as executive action by governors—can most effectively set policy.

• Financial aid barriers persist. Many incarcerated individuals are excluded from state financial aid programs. Policymakers can mitigate this barrier by revisiting aid policies that prohibit access based on incarceration status.

• Inconsistent student support hinders progress. Gaps in academic and reentry support prevent learners from continuing their education. Strengthening partnerships with community colleges and job training programs can help ensure incarcerated learners receive adequate guidance.

The report concludes that expanding access to prison education is most effective when state policymakers address governance structures, financial aid access, and student support systems

Read the full report here.

—Harper Davis