Iowa inmates receive GED degree despite obstacles

When Steven Paul was admitted to the Iowa Medical and Classification Center last August, he had one goal: obtain his General Educational Development degree.

"I didn't think I was smart enough to get it done," Paul, 37, said. "I had been out of school for almost 20 years."

However, Paul got enrolled in Kirkwood Community College's Adult High School program and recently, he joined 13 other inmates at the IMCC in receiving his diploma during a ceremony attended by family, friends, fellow inmates, Kirkwood staff and Department of Corrections officials.

Iowa Department of Corrections Director John Baldwin said the inmates had accomplished "something that's hugely important," in earning their degrees.

"It is a fact that if you got a job while you are in prison ... and you get your GED during your time, you recidivate at 8 percent of the time," Baldwin said. "You have a huge step up in not coming back to us. ... Truthfully, we don't ever want to see you again."

Kirkwood Community College President Mick Starcevich compared the inmates' accomplishments with the catchphrase of his grandson's favorite TV character, Bob the Builder, who tells young viewers, "Can we fix it? Yes, we can!"

"You can fix it," Baldwin said. "Yes, you can."

Starcevich told the inmates their degrees will open up new opportunities for them, including college, apprenticeships and better employment.

"Your futures depend on you," he said. "Your futures are in your hands."

For Paul, who credits his success to a tutor who believed in him, the highlight of earning his degree came when he could call his family and share the good news.

"It was a good feeling to make them smile instead of frown," he said.