TNC
02-10-2004, 11:24 PM
11:16 AM MST on Wednesday, February 4, 2004
Adam Atchison
Idaho's NewsChannel 7
BOISE -- Dozens of inmates picked up where they left off in their education receiving diplomas, GED's and vocational certificates Tuesday. Dignitaries and leaders in state education joined in the first graduation ceremony of the year at the Idaho State Correctional Facility (ISCI).
Receiving a diploma was a proud accomplishment for graduate Richard Gibson. As he led Tuesday's processional, graduation guests watched him finish what he started before he entered ISCI.
“It's more than just a piece of paper; it's accomplishment, fulfillment,” said Gibson. “I'm doing this for myself. The judge wanted me to get a GED, I went further than that and got my high school diploma instead.”
Following a charge by Governor Dirk Kempthorne, 72 graduates received their GED’s, diplomas and vocational certificates. The Department of Correction said each student offender now possesses the important building blocks for success.
Graduates shake hands with Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne and other dignitaries.
“It's important to us that when they do return to society, in our community, as our neighbors, that they are productive members of society,” said Education Director Gail Cushman.
Facility leaders also said Tuesday's graduates are an indication of how important the education program is. The staff sees a potential to ensure jobs and futures for all inmates.
“The wardens and I are working on some programs and some ideas that will help inmates want to come to programs and education, and really develop those skills,” said Cushman.
Richard Gibson has his future in mind, with goals that makes his parents proud. He plans to attend Boise State University and eventually do social work.
"I would just like to see him find success. I mean, I know he's got it," said Richard’s mother Kathy Gibson. “It touched my heart to see him leading the procession. It was great."
Adam Atchison
Idaho's NewsChannel 7
BOISE -- Dozens of inmates picked up where they left off in their education receiving diplomas, GED's and vocational certificates Tuesday. Dignitaries and leaders in state education joined in the first graduation ceremony of the year at the Idaho State Correctional Facility (ISCI).
Receiving a diploma was a proud accomplishment for graduate Richard Gibson. As he led Tuesday's processional, graduation guests watched him finish what he started before he entered ISCI.
“It's more than just a piece of paper; it's accomplishment, fulfillment,” said Gibson. “I'm doing this for myself. The judge wanted me to get a GED, I went further than that and got my high school diploma instead.”
Following a charge by Governor Dirk Kempthorne, 72 graduates received their GED’s, diplomas and vocational certificates. The Department of Correction said each student offender now possesses the important building blocks for success.
Graduates shake hands with Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne and other dignitaries.
“It's important to us that when they do return to society, in our community, as our neighbors, that they are productive members of society,” said Education Director Gail Cushman.
Facility leaders also said Tuesday's graduates are an indication of how important the education program is. The staff sees a potential to ensure jobs and futures for all inmates.
“The wardens and I are working on some programs and some ideas that will help inmates want to come to programs and education, and really develop those skills,” said Cushman.
Richard Gibson has his future in mind, with goals that makes his parents proud. He plans to attend Boise State University and eventually do social work.
"I would just like to see him find success. I mean, I know he's got it," said Richard’s mother Kathy Gibson. “It touched my heart to see him leading the procession. It was great."