Industry operations are expanding rapidly. Construction of new buildings for expansion of operations at Mack Alford Correctional Center, Lexington Assessment and Reception Center and Oklahoma State Reformatory are in the design stage with construction planned for FY00. The purpose of the Agri-Services Division is to provide 100 percent of the department's needs for meat, milk and eggs at an efficient economical level by making the most efficient use of land, facilities, equipment and inmate workforce. The role of the education unit is to access the academic skills of inmates and to offer instruction based upon the identified needs. GED testing is provided free of charge to inmates.
Education programs are available in the department's minimum, medium and maximum security prisons.
The classes are taught by state certified instructors through a system which is accredited by the Department of Education. Included are Keys to Successful Life Choices which is contracted for by the Oklahoma State University. It provides reintegration training and assists inmates to locate available community services upon their release. This is an integrated self paced program to assist inmates to alter how they think, how they make judgement and decisions about what is right and wrong to do in situations. The department works with the Department of Mental Health to coordinate services and training on substance abuse treatment.