Nature and Purpose
The Suffolk County Jail is a pre-trial maximum security facility located in downtown Boston. Those committed to the jail are individuals who have been arraigned in either Superior or District Court, and are unable to make bail. 

In Massachusetts, the "Mandatory Literacy Law" (Chapter 452 of the Acts of 1991) aims to expand and improve literacy programs in Massachusetts jails and houses of corrections with the ultimate goal of enhancing the public safety. The law seeks to reduce recidivism by assisting functionally illiterate inmates to acquire the necessary education to lead independent, productive, and law-abiding lives. With the help of PULSE students, the education program strives toward the goals of the "Literacy Law". 

The education department offers a variety of programs. These programs are: Adult Basic Education (ABE), which includes non-readers through GED level students; English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL); Lifeskills; Math; Art and Writing. There are computer labs equipped with both Macintosh and IBM compatibles to assist students in their learning. 

PULSE students also have the opportunity to learn about the variety of programs provided by the Social Services Department, such as AIDS education, Drug Education, Legal Services, A.A. and N.A. 

Tasks
PULSE students will not only learn the role that education and social services play in the jail, they will also familiarize themselves with the jail's inner workings. After an initial training, PULSE students will assist the Education staff in teaching a very diverse population. 

Time Requirement
The semester begins with an orientation for the PULSE students to become familiar with the jail. The 10-12 hr/week commitment can be met between 8:00AM-3:30PM, Monday through Friday. 

Supervision 
PULSE students working in education will work with teachers who are responsible for matching them with students who need tutoring. They also meet regularly with the Education Program Supervisor for individual and group supervision.

Supervisor
Gerry Walsh

Address
Suffolk County Jail 
200 Nashua Street 
Boston, MA 02114 
Tel.: (617) 989-6675

Council Member:  Laura Terlouw