The Sheriff’s Office Programs Unit and Allan Hancock College on Aug. 12 celebrated a major academic achievement for 63 incarcerated students at the Northern Branch Jail (NBJ).

The students successfully completed college-level courses, proving education can be a powerful force for change, no matter where you are in life, the Sheriff’s Office said.

The graduates were recognized for their work in a range of subjects, including BUS 389: Customer Service Series, ECS 100: Child Growth and Development, FCS 131: Life Management, HUSV 101: Introduction to Human Services, and HUSV 110: Alcohol, Other Drugs & Addiction.

Since the first NBJ college courses started in March 2022, more than 80 classes have been offered on-site.

Allan Hancock College provides a catalog of courses for NBJ students, while Santa Barbara City College does the same for Main Jail students.

The programs, coordinated by the Sheriff’s Office Programs Unit, help participants build confidence, develop job skills, embrace sobriety, and gain the tools to be productive, responsible members of society after release.

“Education is one of the most powerful tools we can offer to people incarcerated in our jail system,” said Sheriff Bill Brown.

“Through our partnerships with Allan Hancock College and Santa Barbara City College, incarcerated students can take courses in a wide range of classes on subjects that can help them better understand themselves, and that better prepare them for a return to the community,” Brown said.

“They aren’t just earning certificates, they are building new futures. Each class completed represents another step away from past mistakes and towards a life with purpose, stability and opportunity.

“That’s good for them, for their families, and for the safety of our community as a whole.”