WSD Celebrates Second Chance Month
Entrepreneurs, managers and substance use treatment counselors, these are just some of the jobs held by former Windham School District (WSD) students. Through WSD programs, incarcerated residents across the State of Texas are taught academic, career and technical, and life skills needed to successfully reenter their communities.
Second chances are the epitome of WSD. Therefore, the district is honored to celebrate Second Chance Month this April with other government agencies, educators, organizations and volunteers across the nation.
For the past five years, the White House has proclaimed April as Second Chance Month to raise awareness and unlock second chances for the tens of millions of Americans with a criminal record who have paid their debt to society.
WSD prepares students for their second chances by teaching literacy and adult secondary education, engaging participants in technical skills training to gain employment, providing them the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications and preparing them to become better parents, friends and citizens.
"Education is the key to second chances. Not only educating our residents and providing them the skills they need to succeed, but educating those in our communities to give these men and women a second chance," WSD Superintendent Kristina Hartman said.
To help students get a second chance and obtain employment upon release, the district guides students on how to apply for necessary occupational licenses, prepare resumes and submit job applications. In addition, the district works with employers across Texas to facilitate the hiring process. Specifically, WSD educates employers about district programming, the certificates available and the skills taught to students. In return, employers share updated industry standards and requirements to ensure students gain the necessary knowledge to be successful in the field.
Second chances matter outside of employment, too. Therefore, WSD provides students with the skills needed to rebuild relationships with their loved ones, change their thinking patterns and live responsibly.
The combination of the district's robust programming has proven to help students successfully reintegrate into society and reduce recidivism.
ABOUT WINDHAM SCHOOL DISTRICT
Windham School District (WSD) provides academic, Career and Technical Education, and life skills programs to eligible individuals within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). We serve a unique population of incarcerated individuals who were unable to complete their basic education in the past and others who need technical training and soft skills to better equip them for the future. With 86 campuses located in TDCJ facilities across Texas, WSD strives to prepare students with the necessary education and skills to successfully reenter the workforce within their communities.