Whereas, SB1391 (2014, Hancock) increased the California community college course offerings inside state prisons so that California community colleges are now teaching in-person in 32 of the state’s 35 correctional facilities;
Whereas, Proposition 57 (2016) will increase the number of individuals being released from state correctional facilities, and will prioritize those individuals who are pursuing college courses while incarcerated;
Whereas, Individuals being released are encouraged to continue their pursuit of higher education when they return to their communities; and
Whereas, Formerly incarcerated students, like other special populations of students, face dramatic obstacles to accessing college service and academic programs without intentional direct support and outreach;
Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges recommend that local senates work with their college administrators to designate and publicize a contact person or persons (preferably faculty) responsible for supporting formerly incarcerated students and helping those students connect with appropriate support services at the college; and
Resolved, That the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges work with the Chancellor’s Office to assist colleges in their efforts to support formerly incarcerated students to access college programs and to achieve their academic goals at the college.
Acclamation