The Ozaukee County Jail Literacy Program (OCJLP), established in 1992 as a nonprofit, provides educational opportunities to incarcerated adults. Wisconsin's first private jail education program, OCJLP relies solely on grants and donations, receiving no taxpayer funds.Programs Offered:
- Basic literacy skills
- Goal setting, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
- Computer literacy courses
- Financial literacy courses
- Job readiness
- Workforce development
- General Education Diploma (GED) or High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) completion with on-site testing
- Family literacy
- Mindfulness
- Art Workshops
“The Ozaukee County Jail Literacy Program does more than provide an education to those who are incarcerated. The Jail Literacy Program is also a support system for incarcerated individuals enrolled in the program, allowing them to gain confidence, skills, and relationships that will help foster their success. The Jail Literacy Program is an asset for the Ozaukee County Jail, and I am grateful for their partnership.” -Christy Knowles - Ozaukee County Sherriff
Letter of Support from Former Students:
“Twenty-five years ago, I got myself into some trouble. Shortly after my incarceration, I enrolled in the Ozaukee County Jail Literacy Program. This program offers inmates an opportunity to study and I received strong instruction from compassionate teachers. While in jail, I earned my HSED. Along with that achievement came self-confidence, which enabled me to further my education after my sentence. The Ozaukee County Jail — and the inmates who choose to enroll in this program, are truly blessed.”-Alex