Make test worth the studying

There is no use in studying for a test one can't take.

This is happening at the Southeast Ohio Regional Jail in Trimble, Ohio. Students from Ohio University tutor prisoners for tests such as the high school General Equivalency Diploma. But it is almost useless for many of these prisoners to burn the midnight oil, because no GED testing facility is located on the jail's premises.

Because of a lack of testing centers, prisoners are required to get permission to leave the jail grounds to attend college classes or take the GED.

Not having a testing center on the premises diminishes the incentive to study. Having a site available would make the test more accessible and less of a hassle for prison employees.

The cost of the GED and other tests also shouldn't be an issue. The cost, which is less than $99, could be waived for prisoners who take the test. This is not a large cost for taxpayers to absorb. Having on-site testing would be as easy as having a testing representative come to the prison to administer a test every time a prisoner needs to take one.

A testing center located on the prison grounds is not only more convenient for all those involved, but also would ensure that prisoners follow through on taking the test.

Taking the GED should be required for prisoners who take advantage of tutoring and study resources.

The main objective of a prison or jail is rehabilitation. The single best way to accomplish this goal is by educating the prisoners.

But for this education to be effective, jails needs to offer more educational services–including GED testing centers and more higher education course offerings. Education is vital to keeping prisoners from becoming repeat offenders and helping them rejoin the work force.