Computer Lab Offers Hope To Women Inside Iowa Corrections

Women jailed at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women (ICIW) will soon be equipped with the skills they need to find jobs after they serve their time behind bars. A computer laboratory newly set up inside the correctional facility is a big help to these female detainees.

According to Public News Service, the computer lab will help the prisoners will allow women to do class work, work on their resume and even do research. The learning center is reportedly named after Des Moines Area Community College emeritus administrator Mary Chapman who has been a big help in the education programs of ICIW.

Chapman claimed that it is an honor for her to have this lab named after her. "I will have this ongoing connection to the success that continues to happen there at ICIW. With educating women to be better prepared and returning to their community with those skills that they need to be successful," she added.

She also mentioned in the Public News Service report that education is needed by the female inmates at ICIW for their reformation and preparation to live a free life. Chapman added that this will allow them to get jobs and help their families after serving their prison sentence.

The correctional's official website noted that the education program at the ICIW includes Adult Basic Education, high school diploma certification, special education and vocational training. "The institution emphasizes responsibility and accountability in preparing women offenders for successful Re-Entry to the community,"read a description on the website.

To achieve education goals, ICIW associate warden of treatment Paul Rode said that the facility has been continuously improving services on rehabilitation and work-skill development. He also said that Chapman helps them provide various opportunities to the detainees.

"Mary's always been a good partner and has always had a special interest in making sure key services are provided for female offenders," Rode says. He claimed that Chapman has this belief that female prisoners have the biggest potential to change and be productive citizens of the community.