ABSTRACT
Mass incarceration is a widespread phenomenon in the United States compared to other countries in the industrialized world. Though this environment is often regarded as negative, conversely for some justice-involved or immured individuals, these institutions can provide potential experiences for rehabilitation. They can also be a platform and resource for the correctional educator to deploy positive investments in individuals who are willing to participate in those opportunities. Correctional educators are a unique sect of teachers within both education in general and adult basic education and literacy specifically.
In addition, other professional careers within correctional education exist such as administrators, librarians, post-secondary educators, and correctional officers. These individuals serve as educators and may be considered role models who provide opportunities for learners’ academic and career success and lifelong learning. With the evolving nature of corrections, correctional education, the criminal justice system, social services, and technology, correctional education teaching professionals need to follow suit to adapt and change as their role expands. Finally, to ensure a more sustainable, tenable career, it is essential that aspirants to this career engage in self-care and holistic wellness. This chapter outlines and describes roles, responsibilities, competencies, and various experiences of these correctional education practitioners.
