Empowering Minds, Overcoming the Challenges of Higher Education in Prison
Education has the power to transform lives, and for Julie Little, an Associate Professor at Rappahannock Community College, that transformation takes place within the walls of Haynesville Correctional Facility. Teaching general biology in a prison setting presents a unique set of challenges, but Professor Little’s creativity, resilience, and dedication to her students have allowed her to navigate these obstacles and create meaningful learning experiences.
Overcoming Challenges in a Restricted Environment
Teaching in a prison requires an open mind and a high level of adaptability. Unlike traditional classrooms, Professor Little’s students do not have access to technology or standard lab equipment. Sharp instruments are prohibited, and acquiring necessary materials can be a bureaucratic challenge —only about 50% of requested supplies are approved. Despite these limitations, Professor Little finds innovative ways to bring biology to life for her students.
One of her most creative solutions involved a sheep brain dissection using Dollar General spoons instead of scalpels. While unconventional, the exercise allowed students to engage in hands-on learning, demonstrating their adaptability and enthusiasm. Another example of resourcefulness is her bird identification labs, where students describe birds they hear or see, and Professor Little provides visual aids and mnemonics to help them identify the species. The inventive approaches not only meet course objectives but also keep students engaged and thinking critically beyond the classroom.
Navigating Communication Barriers
One of the most significant challenges Professor Little faces is communication. With no internet access, students rely on the JPay email system, which does not allow group emails. Professor Little must send individual messages, a time-consuming and often unreliable process—she has gone months without access to JPay, leaving students without essential updates. The lack of communication tools makes coordinating class schedules and addressing student concerns particularly difficult, yet she remains committed to ensuring her students receive the support they need.
Addressing Misconceptions About Incarcerated Students
A common misconception Professor Little hears about incarcerated individuals is that they have ample free time to study. “In reality, prison environments can be noisy and chaotic, with dormitory-style living arrangements that offer little personal space,” said Professor Little. “Despite these conditions, my students are highly dedicated, motivated and hungry for knowledge. They come to class prepared, having done the assigned readings, eager to participate in discussions and hands-on activities. Their enthusiasm for learning challenges stereotypes and underscores the importance of providing educational opportunities in prison.”
The Importance of Higher Education in Prison
Higher education in prison goes beyond academics, it builds social capital, fosters personal growth and prepares individuals for reentry into society. Professor Little emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable learning environment where students feel safe to ask questions and embrace challenges.
“Many of my students are highly intelligent but lacked focus before incarceration. Education provides them with a structured setting to channel their intellect productively, increasing their chances of successful reintegration.” Professor Little’s approach extends beyond the curriculum; she fosters a sense of community by assigning “bird personalities” to her students based on their traits. This lighthearted method helps build bonds and allows students to engage with learning in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
Looking to the Future
Professor Little’s work highlights the need for more faculty members to embrace the challenge of teaching in prison settings. While some educators are hesitant due to the lack of traditional lab resources, Professor Little’s success proves that with creativity and flexibility, high-quality education is possible. She is currently collaborating with a world-wide lab supplier to develop safe lab solutions tailored to prison environments, ensuring that incarcerated students receive the same rigorous education as their peers outside.
Teaching in a correctional facility is not without its obstacles, but Professor Little’s passion and ingenuity demonstrate the profound impact education can have on incarcerated individuals. By overcoming supply shortages, communication barriers and institutional misconceptions, she provides her students with the knowledge and skills they need to build a better future.
Higher education in prison is more than just an academic endeavor, it’s a pathway to transformation, rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Professor Little’s work serves as an inspiring testament to the power of education in even the most challenging circumstances.
Reprinted with permission from the Virginia Consensus for Higher Education in Prison website and the Virginia Interfaith Center, Original story at: Empowering Minds, Overcoming the Challenges of Higher Education in Prison — Virginia Consensus for Higher Education in Prison