The Northwest Correctional Complex (NWCX) in Tiptonville, Tennessee, recently celebrated a significant achievement as 201 incarcerated men received degrees, diplomas, or certificates during a graduation ceremony. The event was marked by the support of fellow inmates who cheered on the graduates as they processed from the education building through the prison yard to the gym, where the ceremony was held. The graduates donned caps and gowns, receiving their credentials in the presence of family members, staff, and community partners.
Through a partnership with the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative, the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) facilitated the awarding of various degrees. Fifteen inmates earned bachelor’s degrees in business from Lane College, and 12 received associate degrees in business from Dyersburg State Community College, all graduating with summa cum laude honors. Additionally, vocational certificates were awarded to eight inmates by the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, 107 through NWCX’s Career Technical Education program, and 59 inmates earned high school equivalency diplomas.
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NWCX Warden Brandon Watwood commended the graduates, stating, “These men chose to make their time count. Positive steps in prison benefit everyone after release – reducing recidivism, lowering crime rates, and making neighborhoods safer places to live.” In the previous year, 169 individuals graduated from similar programs at NWCX, gaining essential skills for post-release life.
Larry Rhodes, a vocational instructor at NWCX, highlighted the transformative impact of education on the inmates. “For many, it’s the first time they’ve learned skills to support themselves and their families. When they leave here, they have something solid to stand on, and that’s life changing,” Rhodes said.
The TDOC education system, approved by the Tennessee Department of Education, offers Adult Basic Education, Career and Technical Education, and Post-Secondary Education programs to those in custody. TDOC collaborates with over ten colleges and universities to provide access to degree programs, including associate, bachelor, and master’s degrees, across state facilities.
Click here to view photos from the graduation ceremonies.
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Tennessee Graduation Rates Reach Record High
The Tennessee Department of Education reported a record high statewide graduation rate of 92.1% for the 2023-24 school year, surpassing the previous year’s 90.6%. Several districts achieved graduation rates over 99%, with 1,756 more students graduating this year. The English learners student group notably increased their graduation rate by 12 percentage points. Districts are enhancing student success with additional learning opportunities such as summer programs and tutoring. More information is available on the department’s Data Downloads webpage.