Incarcerated Students Celebrate High School Degrees In Bergen Co. Jail

HACKENSACK, NJ — A first-of-its-kind graduation ceremony was held at the Bergen County Jail for incarcerated students who completed coursework to earn a New Jersey high school diploma, Bergen County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Keisha McLean said.

The students earned their degrees through a partnership between the sheriff's office and Bergen Community College's Continuing Education and Workforce Development Division, McLean said.

“It is my hope and passion that incarcerated individuals re-enter society with transferrable skills to have a more productive and successful lives," Sheriff Anthony Cureton said.

Students' families were allowed to watch the celebrations via Zoom, as the students received their diplomas, while adorned in a cap and gown, the sheriff's office said.

"Being part of making a positive impact in these students' lives is the most meaningful thing we can do together,” Bergen Community College President Eric M. Friedman said.