PEP Careers

Unlock Potential Behind Bars: Join the Adams State University Prison Education Program!

Are you passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives? Do you believe that education can transform even the most challenging circumstances? If so, we invite you to become an integral part of our Prison Education Program!

At our program, we understand the profound impact education can have on incarcerated individuals. By offering high-quality instruction and fostering a supportive learning environment, we empower incarcerated individuals to unlock their potential and build brighter futures during their time behind bars and reentry into society.

students at Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility in Colorado
Photo: Rachel Woolf, Chalkbeat featuring students at Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility in Colorado

Here’s why you should join us as an instructor:

Meaningful Impact:

  • Your expertise and dedication can make a profound difference in the lives of incarcerated individuals. By teaching in our program, you’ll contribute to breaking the cycle of incarceration and helping students build the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

Fulfilling Work:

  • Few experiences compare to the satisfaction of seeing your students grow, learn, and achieve their goals. As an instructor in our program, you’ll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative power of education.

Professional Development:

  • Teaching in a prison environment presents unique challenges and rewards. By joining our team, you’ll gain valuable experience working with diverse populations, honing your teaching skills, and expanding your professional horizons.

Community Impact:

  • Education doesn’t just benefit individual students—it strengthens communities as a whole. By helping incarcerated individuals gain knowledge and skills, you’ll contribute to safer, more prosperous communities for everyone.

Supportive Environment:

  • We provide our instructors with the support and resources they need to succeed. From comprehensive training to ongoing mentorship, we’re committed to helping you thrive in your role as an educator.

Whether you’re an experienced teacher looking for a new challenge or a passionate professional seeking to make a difference, our Prison Education Program offers a rewarding opportunity to inspire, educate, and empower. We strongly encourage those with lived experience in the carceral system to apply.

Join us in unlocking the potential behind bars—apply to become an instructor today!

Here’s the revised hiring process for all PEP Adjunct Instructors:

Application:

Credential Review:

  • Adams State Department Chairs will assess your credentials to determine your qualification to teach with ASU-PEP. The PEP Director will then communicate the available options to you. Applicants must have a minimum of a Master’s degree with 18 credits in the subject they wish to teach.

Interview:

  • The PEP Director will schedule a 30-minute interview to discuss available opportunities.

HR Paperwork:

  • Complete HR paperwork either at ASU or by directly mailing it to our university.

Background Check (All):

  • All instructors will undergo a background check with Adams State once selected. Please note that we value diverse experiences, and individuals with lived experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Background Check (In-Person/Hybrid):

  • If you opt to teach in-person or hybrid, you must undergo a background check with the Colorado Department of Corrections. (This step is not required for instructors teaching through the correspondence program.)

Course Development:

  • After receiving all necessary paperwork, you will be connected with PEP staff to develop the courses you have chosen to teach.

Course Approval:

  • Once your course is approved and all HR paperwork and background information are received, you can commence teaching with the Adams State University Prison Education Program. Official transcripts will be required for course approval.

We’re committed to providing our instructors and students with a supportive and inclusive environment. Join us in making a difference through education—apply today! Please send all materials to Lauren Hughes, Director of the Prison Education Program, at prisonedprogram@adams.edu.