Community-Building Toolkit for Higher Education in Prison Programs

This guide presents the Community-Building Toolkit for Higher Education in Prison (HEP) Programs developed by the Restorative Justice Lab (RJ Lab) at the University of North Alabama. It outlines the toolkit's purpose, which is to provide structured modules and ready-to-use materials aimed at fostering intentional community-building within correctional environments. The resource includes a curriculum framework and implementation guidance for six foundational modules that focus on building strong cohorts, strengthening relationships, managing conflict, modeling accountability, creating continuous student engagement, and developing programmatic relationships. The toolkit is designed for various HEP programs, offering practical guidance to enhance student support and engagement. The RJ Lab team will engage in a continuous improvement cycle to refine these resources, ensuring they are evidence-informed and applicable to the broader HEP field. The summary also mentions the importance of trauma-informed instructional design and culturally responsive teaching in addressing the unique needs of justice-involved learners.