Bread and water might have been the case in the 19th century, but humanity has become more civilized the last 100 years - or at least some of us have. You sound like you still live in the dark ages where people were beheaded for having their own opinions. There are far too many illiterate people in the world today, and high school completion is an important part of life. If someone wants an education, they should be allowed to get it - whether in or out of the penal system. Child molesters get less time than car thieves.
Drug dealers get less time than drunk drivers.
Don't be so quick to pass judgment until you've walked a mile in my shoes. Some legal, some illegal. Sometimes all someone needs is a nudge in the right direction or an understanding ear or even a guiding hand. It used to be known as the Comfort Inn before it was changed to Lake City Inn. Let's call it Comfort Inn again for our work release program.