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NDSP education and workforce training: GEDs, coding, CDL and college partnerships
Summary
Education staff described GED, certificate and college programs at NDSP including Last Mile coding, CDL and crane training in partnership with Bismarck State College and Ashland University; staff reported high GED pass rates and a growing set of apprenticeships and certifications.
Education officials at the North Dakota State Penitentiary described a range of academic and vocational programs to the Senate Appropriations Committee's Human Resources Division, telling legislators that education is central to reducing recidivism and increasing reentry success.
"In 2024, 32 percent of the people entering prison through orientation did not have a high school diploma or a GED," Michelle Pfaff, director of education, said. She reported that last school year the system served 567 adults and 78 youth, awarded 82 diplomas and that NDSP's GED passing rate ranked among the top five of state correctional systems nationally.
Pfaff and instructors described partnerships and certificates: 15 residents have earned CDLs through Bismarck State College partnerships, 15 residents were certified in crane and rigging in May, and the department is finalizing apprenticeship programs in welding and mechanical maintenance. The Last Mile coding program operates on site, offering intensive coding instruction; staff said national Last Mile data show strong reentry links and that NDSP students receive Chromebooks and remote coaching.
Ashland University and other partners provide postsecondary options: a current student, Justin Gibson, told the committee he earned an associate degree and is pursuing a bachelor's in communication, and that education improved family interactions and helped him reconcile with his young daughter.
Why it matters: Education and credentialing are key parts of NDSP's reentry strategy, officials said. Certificates (OSHA 10, ServSafe, CPR), CDL, crane, and postsecondary degrees are intended to increase employability and stability after release.
Committee exchange: Senators asked about assessment in orientation; Pfaff said staff verify GED/diploma status in orientation and then test reading/math to place residents in the correct education tracks. Senators also asked about program expansion costs; Pfaff noted a $695,000 grant for infrastructure and equipment for college programming but did not provide a total appropriation request during testimony.
Ending: Committee members thanked students and staff. No formal vote was taken during the visit.
