Policy Bulletin

Policy Bulletin 236

Why was the policy changed?

Commissioner's Directive 720, previously entitled "Education of Offenders", has been modified in order to clarify practices and expectations in the delivery of education programs and services. The revision was also required given the Treasury Board funding granted between 2000 and 2003 for the delivery of Adult Basic Education, level 4. CSC began receiving this funding as part of its base budget in 2000-2001. The funding was received in the form of O&M and this money was distributed to all regions according to their needs. This funding included money for contract teachers, computers, maintenance and other supporting O&M funding.

What has changed?

The entire CD 720 has been modified to include more detailed responsibilities, definitions, principles, intake and education processes, accommodations, and a section highlighting the requirement for grade 12 to be identified as an objective in the Correctional Plan. The academic requirement for offenders has risen from a grade 10 completion to a grade 12 or High School Diploma.

How was it developed?

The National Manager of Education and Personal Development Programs reviewed and modified the policy in cooperation with the Regional Education Representatives. Consultations were held with the different sectors at NHQ and RHQ, inmate representatives, and the community stakeholders.

Accountabilities?

Specific accountabilities are clearly reflected within the policy.

Who will be affected by the policy?

All contractors and CSC staff members who offer education programs and services.

Incoming Inmates who have not achieved grade 12 and have an education need identified in the employment domain, and all inmates who have not achieved grade 12 and who were incarcerated prior to the promulgation of this CD.

Intake Parole Officers responsible for the Correctional Plan will ensure those inmates who have not achieved grade 12 have their education/employment needs appropriately addressed in the Correctional Plan (according to CD 705-6, Annex B, page 2).

PO/Primary Workers will be responsible for reviewing the Correctional Plan of inmates incarcerated prior to the promulgation of CD 720 in order to determine the appropriateness of a change in their Correctional Plan. If a change is required, a CPPR will be completed within six months of CD 720's publication to reflect the policy change (according to the new CD 710).

Expected cost?

No additional cost.

Other impacts?

None.

Contact:

  • Karen Barclay
  • Project Officer, Reintegration Programs
  • 613-947-0441
  • barclayki@csc-scc.gc.ca

For more information

To learn about upcoming or ongoing consultations on proposed federal regulations, visit the Canada Gazette and Consulting with Canadians websites.