Jail officials tout educational programs for inmates

Sharon Rodger wants everyone to know that she hasn't wasted her time at the Charleston County jail.

In fact, the 29-year-old inmate hopes to leave soon with something that could advance her career: a certificate from a job-skills program that the Trident Literacy Association put in place this year. She was one of 11 female inmates who has passed exams on applied math, reading and other skills.

"It's a good program, keeps you busy," said Rodger, her proud smile a cheerful contrast to her gray uniform.

Before cocaine use got her into trouble, she had worked as a machinist. After a court date next week, she thinks she might be able to leave and secure a better position in the same field.

The program, WorkKeys, was developed by the ACT nonprofit organization and is used throughout the country. It measures real-world skills that are valuable for employers. The certificate shows that a job-seeker has skills and is ready to work.

The program can be completed in as little as a month. Graduates earn one of three credentials — bronze, silver and gold — depending on scores and aptitude.

Forty other women are enrolled so far and Trident Literacy hopes that 100 will have earned certificates by early next year, Executive Director Eileen Chepenik said.

On Wednesday, jail staff led reporters on a tour to showcase the WorkKeys and a separate program for graduation equivalency diplomas, or GEDs.

Read more in tomorrow's editions of The Post and Courier.