About DCE

The Department of Correctional Education (DCE), a separate executive branch agency, is an independent school district with its own school board that operates in cooperation with the Department of Corrections and the Department of Juvenile Justice. DCE Juvenile Schools are accredited by the Virginia Department of Education.

DCE provides educational services in adult and youth correctional facilities throughout Virginia. All academic and career and technical education teachers meet state certification and endorsement standards.

Educational programs and related services are offered statewide in:

• Adult Correctional Centers
• Field Units
• Diversion Centers
• Boot Camps
• Juvenile Correctional Centers
• Detention Centers
• Reception Centers
• Day Reporting Centers

The Department of Correctional Education programs are geared toward helping individuals to realize their potential and to become productive members of society. The public benefits from the educational programs provided to inmates because productive and taxpaying citizens make positive contributions to society and, most importantly, do not create more victims through criminal acts.

Juvenile Programs

• Academic Education /High School Diploma/GED
• Career and Technical Education
• Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Programs
• Social Skills Training
• Special Education
• SAT/College Preparation
• Job/Employability Skills Training
• Library Services

Adult Programs

• Literacy Incentive Program (LIP)
• Special Education
• Apprenticeship Programs
• Cognitive Skills Training
• Library Services
• Adult Basic Education (GED)
• Career and Technical Education
• Transitional Services/Life Skills Education
• Job/Employability Skills Training

The Department of Correctional Education provides educational opportunities to incarcerated youth and adults who have been unsuccessful in the public schools and their communities.

We Fight Crime Through Education by:

Providing educational services that allow adult inmates and youth offenders:

• Opportunities to be literate when they leave the prison or juvenile correctional center.
• A focus on instruction which will enhance each student's employment possibilities and life skills.
• Services that aid in transitioning students into the job market and their communities.