Think Out Loud

What literacy looks like in Oregon’s prison system

By Rolando Hernandez (OPB)
July 5, 2022 5:03 p.m. Updated: July 6, 2022 10:49 p.m.

Broadcast: Tuesday, July 5

The exterior wall and a guard tower at a prison.

About 15% of people incarcerated in Oregon prisons are reading below an eighth grade level. Nearly half of these readers aren't enrolled in the classes they should be in.

Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB

00:00
 / 
10:44
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:

About 15% people incarcerated in Oregon prisons are reading below an eighth grade level. That’s according to a recent investigation done by the Statesman Journal. It found that while state laws requires people incarcerated designated as low-level readers to be taking classes, nearly half of those aren’t enrolled in any courses. We’ll hear from education reporter Natalie Pate on her reporting and the unique challenges facing adults in custody in Oregon.

Contact “Think Out Loud®”

If you’d like to comment on any of the topics in this show, or suggest a topic of your own, please get in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter, send an email to thinkoutloud@opb.org, or you can leave a voicemail for us at 503-293-1983. The call-in phone number during the noon hour is 888-665-5865.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:

Become a Sustainer now at opb.org and help ensure OPB’s fact-based reporting, in-depth news and engaging programs thrive in 2025 and beyond.
We’ve gone to incredible places together this year. Support OPB’s essential coverage and exploration in 2025 and beyond. Join as a monthly Sustainer now or with a special year-end contribution. 
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: