Such programs offer a comprehensive set of instructional experiences and linkages to support services that increase the social and economic self-sufficiency of individuals upon release from incarceration. Learning experiences are undertaken and linkages are forged well before the release date of the incarcerated individual in essence, beginning the day an inmate enters the correctional facility. The process continues well after the inmate has exited the facility. One of the recent developments in New York State county and municipal correction facilities is stronger connections with apprenticeship training programs. Corrections educators, jail administrators, and local union representatives have joined forces to implement pre-apprenticeship training programs within correctional facilities.
Inmates participate in both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Upon release, ex-offenders may apply for entrance into a formal apprenticeship program. Recently, New York's activities were presented at the 56th Annual International Correctional Education Association conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. A series of sample lessons, many of which have been provided by corrections educators, is also included within the instructional guide. Bridging the Gap was developed to share the collective wisdom and experience of education professionals who have successfully guided the transition of hundreds of incarcerated youth and adults back to the community. The document discusses what occurs in a transition program, identifying certain components as absolutely vital.