CPSO, Southern University bring education to inmates

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) are partnering on a re-entry education and workforce development program that will help people who are incarcerated prepare for life after they are released.

SUSLA Chancellor Aubra Gant said, “To partner with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office in a reentry and education program, this is an opportunity for individuals who are currently incarcerated, close to being released, to take advantage of higher education.”

The initiative offers GED completion and college credit courses for various occupations.

“One of the things that we’re seeing is that revolving door of people re-offending and coming back into the system. We’ve got to allow folks to succeed,” said Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn

Sheriff Whitehorn says this partnership builds on the department’s existing reentry efforts, now helping citizens become contributing members of society.

“They’re not just inmates, they’re returning citizens. They’re gonna come back into our community, and this gives us an opportunity to help them help themselves. It helps our community succeed,” said Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn.

SUSLA will provide the faculty and resources, while the sheriff’s office supplies the infrastructure and support.

Gant added, “The courses that will be offered will be taught at the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office. We will also offer virtual classes, as we partner with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, and provide you with a second chance through higher education at Southern University at Shreveport.”