Legal Definitions - study release

Study release refers to a temporary leave from a correctional facility granted to an incarcerated individual specifically for the purpose of pursuing educational or vocational training outside the facility. This type of release is often part of a rehabilitation program, designed to equip individuals with skills and knowledge that will aid in their successful reintegration into society upon their full release.

• Example 1: Maria, who is serving a sentence for a non-violent offense, has consistently demonstrated good behavior and a strong commitment to self-improvement. Nearing the end of her sentence, she is granted study release to attend a local community college's certified nursing assistant (CNA) program during weekdays. She attends classes and clinical training at the college, returning to the correctional facility each evening.

  Explanation: This illustrates study release because Maria is temporarily permitted to leave the correctional facility to pursue a specific vocational education program (CNA training) that will provide her with marketable skills for employment after her incarceration.

• Example 2: David, an inmate with a history of substance abuse, has completed several rehabilitation programs while incarcerated and expressed a desire to pursue higher education. After earning his high school equivalency diploma within the facility, he applies for and receives study release to enroll in evening courses at a nearby university, working towards an associate's degree in social work. He is transported to and from campus under supervision.

  Explanation: This demonstrates study release as it involves David's temporary, supervised absence from the correctional facility to attend an accredited university for academic study, aiming to develop professional skills and improve his future opportunities.

• Example 3: A state correctional facility partners with a local trade school to offer a plumbing apprenticeship program to eligible inmates. John, who has maintained a clean disciplinary record for several years and shown a keen interest in skilled trades, is approved for study release. He attends the trade school daily to learn practical plumbing skills and theory, returning to the facility at the end of each training day.

  Explanation: This example highlights study release as a structured program where John is allowed to leave the correctional facility for a specific educational purpose – vocational training in plumbing – to acquire a valuable trade skill for post-release employment.