Reporters invited to Inmate GED Graduation Ceremony at Gulf Correctional Institution on February 3, 2011

33 inmates from Gulf Correctional Institution will be presented with their diplomas for earning a G.E.D. on February 3, 2011 at 8:30 AM Central. Reporters are invited to the graduation ceremony and to film/interview the graduates and teachers, some of whom are inmates themselves. The GED test consists of five parts and is similar to a high school degree. To earn a GED, one must pass a five part test consisting of reading/language and writing (including an essay), math, social studies and science.  If you fail just one part of the test, you do not earn a GED, but can retake the part you failed at a later time.  39 inmates will also be receiving certificates for completing the 100 hour faith-based Transition program.

WHERE:Gulf Correctional Institution 500 Ike Steele Road Wewahitchka, Fl 32465.  The Graduation Ceremony will be held in the Main Unit Chapel.

WHEN: 8:30 am CST, February 3, 2011

WHO: Inmates at Gulf Correctional Institution.  Gulf Correctional Institution is an adult male prison located in Gulf County.  It currently houses 3185 inmates.  Inmate Kenneth Stavig #C04640 has been named the class valedictorian.

WHY: Inmates have a better chance of staying out of prison if they have an education. (Studies show inmates who have a GED when released recidivate at a rate 7.9% less than inmates overall.) The number of Florida state inmates earning GED certificates has nearly doubled in three years, increasing from 1,313 in FY 2006-07 to 2,603 awarded in FY 2009-10. The increase in GED certificates earned can be attributed to several factors, including more frequent testing cycles to catch problem areas early; implementing voluntary literacy programs at our work camps; and the use of trained inmate teaching assistants.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: If you’d like to attend, please contact Assistant Warden John Sloan at 850-639-1133, so a background check can be completed.

DIRECTIONS TO PRISON: Directions: Take I-10 to Exit 142 (SR-71 South) approximately 42 miles to Stone Mill Creek Road. Turn right off Hwy-71 onto Stone Mill Creek Road. Institution is approximately three miles from Hwy-71.  If coming from Panama City area take Hwy 22 east towards Wewahitchka approximately 22 miles to Road 5.  Turn left onto Road 5 proceed until the stop sign.  After the stop sign proceed straight on Stone Mill Creek Road, Gulf C.I. is approximately ½ miles from the Road 5 stop sign.