An innovative program at the Dunn County Jail is giving inmates the chance to earn their High School Equivalency Diploma through a partnership with Literacy Chippewa Valley.
The program, coordinated through the jail’s education services, allows inmates to work toward their HSED while incarcerated, said Heather Pyka, Jail Program Director, adding that Dunn County was one of first jails in the state to use a computerized equivalency testing program.
Instruction is provided by Literacy Chippewa Valley, a nonprofit organization that delivers adult education programming throughout the region, with grants paying for the program.
Participation varies based on inmate population and individual progress. At any given time, between two and six inmates may be actively working toward their HSED, Pyka said, adding that the program includes separate education groups for men and women.
“We always have students working on their diploma, though participation can change from day to day,” she said.
Pyka said earning a high school equivalency diploma carries huge benefits for incarcerated individuals once they are released.
“Many jobs require a diploma or an equivalent, and you often need it to continue your education,” she said. “It also helps build confidence. Completing something like this, sometimes years after leaving school, is a significant achievement.”
She added: “Many of our participants are parents. This kind of accomplishment is a strong example for their families.”
Not all county jails are able to provide on-site educational services, she said, but Dunn County has prioritized access to education as part of its rehabilitation efforts.
Inmates do not need to be sentenced for a specific length of time to participate. Even those with short stays are encouraged to begin coursework and are provided information on how to continue their education after release.
In addition to HSED instruction, Literacy Chippewa Valley offers a variety of other educational opportunities inside the jail.
Aleah Sauter, a Literacy Chippewa Valley educator, said she has helped about 25 inmates in the Dunn and Chippewa County jails achieve their equivalency diploma in the last 18 months.
“We partner with the Chippewa Valley Technical College to process the testing and make sure we are meeting state requirements,” Sauter added.
In addition, Pyka said, 12 inmates in April are scheduled to become certified in CPR, AED and first aid, and these credentials can improve job readiness and community outcomes after release.
“These programs are about giving people tools they can use moving forward,” Pyka said. “Education and certification can make a real difference when someone is re-entering the community.”
