July 18, 2016 In Higher Education

Ex-cons on Campus?

Sometimes the most well-intentioned programs can be adopted without enough forethought and analysis. The Obama administration’s Fair Chance for Higher Education initiative could be one of these.

Twenty-five colleges and universities have signed up to lower admissions standards for released felons, in a noble attempt to offer tham a way up in life.

But recidivism rates are very high, and colleges seem quite concerned with making their campuses into “safe spaces”. Can this initiative be counterproductive?

Something to think about, and you can read my full commentary here on the pages of National Review’s higher education website Phi Beta Cons.

2 Comments

  • Bud Jennings

    July 18, 2016 at 1:34 pm

    Government agencies love acronyms. May I suggest one for this iniative? FARCE seems appropriate. FAiR ChancE…etc.

  • Joe Rafter

    July 18, 2016 at 1:58 pm

    It seems to me that the Institutions could deliver the education while the convicts are still in the prison and/or over the internet. This would reduce the exposure of convicted felons on the campus, while also providing the seriousness of the convicts to turn their lives around.