Inmates from the Monmouth County Correctional Institution have been utilizing their time in a productive manner by going back to school. For the past 5 months, 10 inmates have been studying for their GED (high school equivalency diplomas) online, through a program run by the Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission. On Friday, April 1st, they officially became graduates of the program and received their high school diploma from the State of New Jersey during a special ceremony at MCCI. "Education is the key to a productive future," said Sheriff Shaun Golden, who addressed the inmates. "Nobody can take that knowledge away from you. Use it as you move forward and transition back into society."

This state of the art, virtual online GED program began at the jail in 2007. To date, 87 inmates have graduated. "This is the opportunity I needed to fulfill my dreams and make my family proud," said inmate Robert Thomas who proudly held his diploma. "Now that I have my diploma, doors are open for me and I have a chance at a new beginning."

The inmates study math, science, social studies, reading and writing five days a week to prepare for the GED exam. The online program runs throughout the entire year. "I'm hopeful these inmates will go on to further their education, and, I'm glad that MCCI offers this initiative for the purpose of positive change," said Sheriff Golden.