Reducing Recidivism

Reducing Recidivism through Teaching, Tutoring, & Mentoring

During the six years I served in USP Atlanta, I mentored more than 1,000 prisoners who worked to earn their GED certificates, and complete drug education courses. Former Associate Warden Phil Little, who presided over the education department, authenticated my commitment to reduce recidivism through education by writing a letter of acknowledgement and appreciation for my efforts. United States Penitentiary, Atlanta (1988 through 1994)

At FCI McKean, I tutored more than 500 prisoners as they worked through GED and college course work. Additionally, I contributed to two programs —”Breaking Down the Barriers” and “Mentors“— that taught the strategies I use to prepare for a law-abiding life and reconciling with society while serving a lengthy prison term. More than 500 prisoners completed the 20-hour programs. Former Warden Dennis Luther, of FCI McKean, wrote a letter acknowledging my commitment to reduce recidivism and commending my contributions.   Letter from Warden Dennis Luther, FCI McKean, April 1995  FCI McKean (1994)

During the seven years I served at FCI Fort Dix, I designed and taught the following courses through which more than 500 prisoners earned 20-hour certificates of completion:

  • Seven Habits of Highly Successful Prisoners: Goal setting program that I based on Stephen Covey’s best-selling book, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, designed to help offenders build networks of support and to secure job placement that will assist their transition to society as law-abiding citizens. FCI Fort Dix (1994 through 2003)
  • Developing Resumes From Prison: A program to instruct offenders on steps that lead to authentic credentials effective in building support and securing employment upon release, thus reducing recidivism. FCI Fort Dix (1994 through 2003)

While confined at FPC Florence, I designed and taught a course entitled “Seven Habits of Prisoners Preparing to Succeed Upon Release. That course introduced participants to strategies I use to prepare for law-abiding release and lowering recidivism. More than 100 prisoners at Florence camp earned 40 hour certificates by participating. FPC Florence (2003 through 2005)

Because prison administrators at FPC Lompoc did not support education programs, I worked independently to assist others prepare for law-abiding lives upon release. Through my independent efforts, I reached more than 3,000 people in substantial, measurable ways. FPC Lompoc (2005 through 2007)

  • I wrote Step Up, a book I use to use teach people how to generate skills, resources, and credentials that will lead to employment. More than 500 copies of the Step Up book have been distributed, and I’ve personally instructed more than 100 prisoners with that book. FPC Lompoc (2005 through 2007)

I facilitate “The Entrepreneurial Compass” course at Taft Camp. This course teaches prisoner participants how to build skills and resources to emerge as law-abiding citizens. More than 120 prisoners at FPC Taft have earned 20-hour certificates through their participation. Taft Prison Camp (2007 to Present)

Throughout my confinement, I’ve utilized my education as a resource by working with university professors and thousands of university students who use my published work, collaborating with them in an interactive dialogue through written correspondence, e-mail, my blog, and my Web sites.

My Personal Commitment:

During his 23+ years of continuous confinement in federal prisons of every security level, Michael Santos has emerged as one of the leading voices on America's prison system and the need for prison reform.Learn more about Michael’s specific efforts, achievements, and contributions.


BOOKS by Michael G. Santos

Inside: Life Behind Bars in America

About Prison

Profiles From Prison

Read letters of support Michael has received from community leaders, professors, students, organizations, and readers.

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