Reentry Simulation Toolkit for Higher Education in Prison Programs

This guide outlines the Reentry Simulation Toolkit for Higher Education in Prison (HEP) Programs developed by the Restorative Justice Initiative at Pennsylvania State University. The toolkit aims to prepare communities for the successful reentry of justice-impacted individuals by addressing structural barriers such as housing restrictions, employment discrimination, and access to education and healthcare. The Reimagined Reentry Simulation (RRS) shifts the focus from personal responsibility to systemic inequities, fostering dialogue among participants from various sectors. The resource includes a structured simulation experience with interactive scenarios, facilitator guides, training videos, and adaptation suggestions for diverse audiences. Additionally, it features case studies and debrief materials to enhance facilitation strategies. The document details a continuous improvement cycle for refining the toolkit, involving research reviews, pilot testing, and feedback from advisory board members. The insights gained will be shared to support improvements in prison education programs across the HEP field.