Question 1

Study

Accepted Answer

Harvard University researchers have studied the IGNITE (Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education) program in Flint, Michigan, which helps incarcerated individuals improve their reading, math, and other skills. The National Sheriffs' Association has adopted IGNITE as a national initiative, and the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office is the first agency in Virginia to launch R.I.G.N.I.T.E. (Residents Individually Growing Naturally and Intentionally Through Education), a program modeled after the transformative IGNITE educational platform.

https://hls.harvard.edu/today/harvard-law-researcher-finds-positive-results-from-jail-education-program-in-michigan/

Findings 
 • Reduced recidivism: After one month in the program, participants were 18% less likely to return to jail within three months, and 23% less likely over a year.  
 • Improved math and reading: Participants gained a full grade level in reading and math.  
 • Improved self-perception: Participants developed a more positive self-perception and mindset.  
 • Improved community relations: Community members who were exposed to IGNITE or had family members who were exposed had more positive views of law enforcement.
 • The program also cuts major misconduct incidents in jail by 49%.
 
Impact 
 • Breaks the cycle of recidivism, increasing chances for employment and further education.
 • Improves behavior in jail, reducing violence and threats.
 • Strengthens community relationships, fostering trust in law enforcement.
 • Saves society money, with an estimated $5,600 saved per participant per year.
 
Research team 
The research team included Professor Marcella Alsan from Harvard Kennedy School and Professor Crystal Yang from Harvard Law School.  
 
Benefits 
The program has been shown to be beneficial for both individuals and the community.

Question 2

Phases of Implementation

Accepted Answer

Phase 1
 • Recreation in All Areas                                                                           
 • GED Classes                                                                                       
 • Start Fresh Start Culinary Class                                                 
 • Start Men's Alpha Pod                                                                    
 • Start Women's Alpha                                                                      
 • Start Men's Narcotics Anonymous                                            
 • Discharge Planning Services                                                        
 • Library Services

Phase 2
 • Start Re-Entry Pod                                                                           
 • Move Male Alpha to Program Floor                                          
 • Start Religious Studies Classes                                                    
 • Start Art Therapy Class                                                                   
 • Pathway Home Program                                                               
 • Build Smart Institute Classes                                                       
 • Keys to Freedom Program                                                            
 • Resident Workbooks

Phase 3
Inside-Out Program                                                                        
 • BrightView Group                                                                            
 • CHARLII Program                                                                              
 • DMV Connect                                                                                    
 • Start Male Mental Health Therapeutic Pod                           
 • Start Female M/H Therapeutic Pod and Re-Entry                               
 • Start (R)IGNITE Education pods for males                               
 • Education Platform on Resident Tablet                                   
 • Start Additional Programming with Community Partners:                                              
		Financial Literacy – MemberOne                                                               
		Hope Initiative – Bradley Free Clinic                                                          
		Greater Roanoke Workforce Development                                           
		Hustle Haven Yoga for Female Residents                                                               
		Virginia Western Community College

Question 3

New Programs Offered by Behavioral Specialists

Accepted Answer

• M-TREM Men’s Trauma Recovery for men                                            
 • Forklift Training                                                                                                 
 • Disinfection Specialist                                                                                     
 • CPR, AED, First Aid and NARCAN training                                               
 • Clear Choice – Drug Educational Program                                              
 • Trauma Informed Training

RSO

Residents Individually Growing Naturally & Intentionally Through Education

All Residents

General Population

Trusty Assignment

Programming Pods

CONTACT THE OFFICE

Opening Hours:
8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Physical Address:
340 Campbell Avenue SW
Roanoke, VA24016

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 494
Roanoke, VA 24003

Day Phone: (540) 853-2941
Fax: (540) 853-5353

Operation Hours:
24/7

Physical Address:
324 Campbell Ave SW
Roanoke, VA 24016

Phone: (540) 853-6777

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