He noted that a lack of education is often what prevents people on probation, a period of court-ordered supervision, from starting careers and making better choices.

“This program, the first of its kind to use BOCES, will help break the cycle of those involved in the criminal justice system who are trapped in low-paying jobs and struggling to get their lives back on track, and ultimately future crimes. “McCoy said in a statement.

More than 300 county residents on probation do not have a high school diploma, according to the county. Of those, more than 100 said they were interested in the new program, according to a survey.

Albany County Probation Department Director Bill Connors said many people on probation find their court-mandated jobs unsatisfactory.

“We wanted to create a system that offers greater opportunities for stable and reliable employment, which can often come from education. This can deter people from making negative choices and reduce their chances of reoffending,” he said. he declares.

Students will be required to devote a minimum of 10 to 12 hours per week to the program when it launches on January 5, 2022. Depending on their level of education, students will spend three months to one year in the program.

County probation offices will house a new computer lab with workstations allowing students to complete homework or access services provided by the Capital District Education Opportunity Center. Most of the programming will be later in the day or in the evening. The classroom will be available three evenings a week for BOCES teaching and EOC students will be able to access it during the day for distance education.

BOCES programming will be handled by a certified teacher provided by BOCES in the Capital Region, as well as by the program coordinator.