The Kansas Department of Corrections recently learned that two additional Kansas colleges have been accepted by the U.S. Department of Education as Second Chance Pell experimental sites. (The full ban on access to Pell funds by incarcerated persons will end July 2023.)  The two colleges are Cowley and Butler community colleges, and bring Kansas to a total of nine colleges serving as Second Chance Pell sites. These colleges are currently providing adult and higher education programs and services at Winfield and El Dorado correctional facilities. 

As a Second Chance Pell site, Butler Community College will offer Construction Technology, Workforce Development and Business Administration associate’s degrees, with credentials and hours that can apply to areas such as Masonry, and Hotel and Restaurant Management. 

Cowley Community College will offer programs in Electromechanical Maintenance, Carpentry/Construction Trades, Welding Technology, and Software, Security and Development, along with credentials and hours that can apply to certifications related to each of these programs. 

"We expect to reach about 255 more KDOC residents in three years through these programs, with about 200 completing a full associate's degree," said Kansas Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda.

Colleges that partner with KDOC on these programs and many other programs are integral to the KDOC Pathway for Success, the department's strategic plan.

"We appreciate their willingness to step forward and become part of our mission, and their plans to expand access to market-relevant programs for our residents." he said.