College Behind Bars (1) (S24E08)

This two-part documentary from Storyville explores the remarkable journey of men and women in the United States who are pursuing college degrees while serving time for serious offenses. The Bard Prison Initiative stands out as one of the most challenging and impactful educational programs within the U.S. prison system. Filmed over four years in New York's maximum and medium-security facilities, the series addresses a critical issue: the lack of effective rehabilitation for over two million incarcerated individuals. Through the experiences of the students and their families, we learn that many had dropped out of high school before their incarceration and never envisioned attending college. Over four years of rigorous study, they evolve into accomplished scholars, triumph over the Harvard debate team, confront their pasts, and realize the profound power of education.