Backed by data, driven by impact
The Mission
The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) faced a pressing need to support academic educators working in correctional facilities. These educators encounter unique challenges such as navigating security protocols, managing diverse student populations, and teaching in a controlled, often unpredictable environment. Traditional professional development programs don't adequately address these specific needs. Additionally, logistical barriers—including travel restrictions, tight schedules, and security clearance—make in-person training difficult. The FDC sought a flexible, relevant solution to equip educators with the tools they need to effectively engage incarcerated learners.
The Collaboration
Career Education Teacher Alternative Certificate (CETAC) Program
Unlike generic certification programs, CETAC addresses the distinct challenges of teaching incarcerated adult learners and supports instructors who come from industry backgrounds but may not hold traditional teaching credentials. The program includes targeted coursework in adult learning theory, CTE instructional strategies, curriculum planning, and methods for supporting special populations—all within the correctional context.
Participants are awarded a permanent department-issued teaching certificate upon successful completion of the course.
Continuing Education Courses for Certified Teachers (CECCT) Program
7RHC developed a series of online professional development courses for CTE teachers to meet the required 120 hours of continuing education for recertification. These courses, including Motivating the Incarcerated Learner, Instructional Design for Competency-Based Learning, and Financial Literacy for Inmate Education, focus on improving instructional strategies and addressing unique challenges in correctional settings. Each course is 20 hours, combining direct instruction and self-guided learning.
CTE Course Management and Platform Support
We provided management services for the CETAC and CECCT programs, including course registrations, student records, certificate issuance, and data analysis. We also ensured the maintenance and updating of course materials to keep the content relevant and accessible.
Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) for FDC
7RHC conducted the Perkins-required CLNA. This assessment guides the development of educational activities and programs aligned with Perkins V requirements for the upcoming years, ensuring compliance and optimizing training strategies for Post-Secondary Adult Vocational and related programs.
The Results
Expanding the Educator Pipeline Through CETAC
The CETAC program provides a critical solution to the ongoing shortage of qualified teachers in correctional education by creating a streamlined, accessible pathway for skilled industry professionals to become certified CTE instructors. By removing traditional licensing barriers and offering a correction-specific alternative certification model, CETAC significantly expands the pool of eligible candidates, allowing the Florida Department of Corrections to recruit and onboard new educators more quickly.
Enhanced Educator Effectiveness: The initiatives helped correctional educators build competency in areas such as adult learning theory, classroom management, and trauma-informed care by providing tailored, flexible professional development. This has led to improved teaching practices and more engaged, successful learners.
Workforce Development for Inmates: CTE courses in areas like business, marketing, financial literacy, and STEM have equipped incarcerated individuals with practical, marketable skills. These programs have better prepared inmates for successful reentry into the workforce, promoting economic self-sufficiency and reducing recidivism.
Sustained Impact: The creation of an online platform for ongoing professional development ensures continuous support for educators, fostering long-term improvements in correctional education.