A man has become a jail’s first resident to earn his GED thanks to the facility’s new partnership with a college. The resident, identified only as Kemorion, is the first in the Athens-Clarke County Jail to earn his GED through a new partnership with Athens Technical College.
According to a statement by the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, GED testing is one of over 20 free educational programs now available to residents inside the Athens-Clarke County Jail.
This was largely made possible by the vision and leadership of Sheriff John Q. Williams, the statement said. Williams said programs like these are very important as they represent “hope, hard work, and a commitment to personal growth.”
The Clarke County Sheriff’s Office said in its statement that Kemorion’s achievement is “remarkable”, adding that it “represents more than just a diploma—it symbolizes hope, hard work, and a commitment to personal growth.”
“At the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, we believe in creating meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation, education, and re-entry success. This is only the beginning,” the statement added.
Congratulatory messages have begun pouring in for Kemorion. “Kemorion, your accomplishment is truly inspiring! Congratulations on earning your GED,” one social media user wrote.
“This is what reform looks like. Don’t let your past define you. Keep stiving for excellence. Great job!!!” a second wrote.
“Kudos to him! Taking advantage of the resources he is given. First step in the right direction. Keep it up young man, proud of you!” another wrote.
People who serve time in prison usually find it difficult to earn the credentials they need to make it after release because they lack educational opportunities behind bars.
Research by Prison Policy Initiative shows that formerly incarcerated people are nearly twice as likely to have no high school credential at all.
It adds that “more than half of formerly incarcerated people hold only a high school diploma or GED — credentials which have diminishing value in today’s job market.”
What’s more, only 15 percent of incarcerated adults earn a postsecondary degree or certificate either prior to or during incarceration, a report by New America states.
