Correctional Education

The College in Prison Program

Since 1979, Edmonds College has been providing educational services to adult male incarcerated students at the Monroe Correctional Complex (MCC) in Monroe, Washington.

In partnership with the Department of Corrections and State Board of Community & Technical Colleges, the Edmonds College' Corrections Division, composed of twenty faculty and program staff, provides quality instruction to over 700 students annually through vocational and adult basic education programming. 

Edmonds College correctional programming takes place at three prison facilities within Monroe Correctional Complex: Twin Rivers Unit (TRU) , Minimum Security Unit (MSU) , and Special Offenders Unit  (SOU). 

Washington’s College in Prisons programs benefit all citizens of Washington state:

• Incarcerated students who are provided opportunities to gain job skills are much more likely to be successful in the community upon release. A successful reentry by an individual contributes to the community by working, paying taxes, making restitution payments, and supporting other family members.
• Individuals who participate in education are statistically less likely to commit additional crimes upon release. There is a direct correlation between education level and recidivism: the higher the education level, the lower the recidivism rate. A decrease in recidivism reduces long-term costs to taxpayers.
• Education programs are an integral part of the “targeted interventions and seamless services” prescribed in the state’s Offender Accountability Act. Individuals who attain literacy and job skills are better equipped to find and keep employment, take care of their families, and contribute to their communities.

Education Pathways at Monroe Correctional Complex