The Amer-I-Can Program - Rhode Island

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Click on the links below to read about how the Amer-I-Can Program is impacting Rhode Island.

March, 2007 Update

Chart A

State Data: GPA

Between 1997- 2005, the Rhode Island State Legislature funded the Amer-I-Can Program at 11 public schools located at Providence, Pawtucket, East Providence and Newport and the Rhode Island Juvenile Training School at Cranston. A total of 3,403 students completed the training. The average GPA of the students prior to the training was 1.90 and increased to 2.28, representing a 20% increase.

-Click on Chart A for larger view-

Chart B

State Data: Absences

During the same time period, the trainees’ school absences fell from 36,093 to 26,750. The 9,343 fewer absences represent a 26% decrease.

-Click on Chart B for larger view-

Chart C

State Data: Disciplinary Incidents

During the same time period, the trainees’ school disciplinary incidents dropped from 7,672 to 3,691, representing a 52% decrease.

-Click on Chart C for larger view-

Amer-I-Can has also provided life skills training and after-care services since 1999 to over 600 inmates at two medium and one minimum security prison in Cranston, Rhode Island. Craig Love, Ph.D. conducted an Independent Performance Study of Amer-I-Can following the first year of its operation. A survey of participating inmates regarding the program resulted in a very high rating in the following categories: General rating of Amer-I-Can; Materials provided; Instructors’ knowledge of the material; Instructors’ presentation style; How useful is the program; Is the program meaningful to you; Likelihood of using the material provided; Instructors’ respectful treatment.

Dr. Love’s report concluded, “The Amer-I-Can Program remains a popular program among its participants.” The inmates suggest the instructors are liked and respected by the inmates, the program is being delivered as promised and the inmates are optimistic about their future in the free community.”