Coming home after doing time means building a new life, and education is one of the most powerful tools you can have. Whether you need to earn a diploma, pick up a trade, or explore college, investing in your education can lead to better job opportunities, financial stability, and personal growth.
For a lot of people, school wasn’t always a priority growing up. But now, education isn’t about a classroom—it’s about having the skills to move forward. The good news? Los Angeles has programs that help people with records get back into school, train for careers, and set themselves up for success.
Step 1: Finish What You Started – High School Diploma or GED
If you didn’t finish high school, getting your diploma or GED is a strong first step. It opens up higher-paying jobs, vocational programs, and even college opportunities.
Where to Get Your GED or Diploma in Los Angeles County
• LA Unified Adult Education Programs – Offers free GED classes, adult high school programs, and career training across LA. Find a center near you.
• Five Keys Schools & Programs – A nonprofit helping formerly incarcerated individuals earn their diploma or GED while also offering life skills and job training. Learn more here.
• Los Angeles Public Library Adult Literacy Program – Provides free tutoring and GED prep for adults looking to improve their reading, writing, and math skills. See available programs.
Step 2: Learn a Trade & Get to Work
Not everyone wants to sit in a classroom for years—and that’s okay. Vocational programs train you for hands-on, high-demand careers in fields like plumbing, HVAC, welding, electrical work, and auto mechanics. Many of these jobs pay well and don’t require a college degree.
Where to Get Job Training in LA County
• LA Trade-Technical College (LATTC) – One of the best places for vocational training in construction, automotive, culinary arts, and fashion design. They even offer financial aid for people with low income. Explore programs here.
• Flintridge Center’s Apprenticeship Preparation Program – Prepares formerly incarcerated individuals for careers in union trades like electrical, carpentry, and plumbing. Apply here.
• Homeboy Industries – Offers free job training in industries like solar panel installation, culinary arts, and printing for justice-involved individuals. Learn more here.
• Chrysalis – A workforce development nonprofit that helps people with records get ready for employment, find jobs, and develop new skills. Find out how to sign up.
Step 3: Higher Education & College Reentry Programs
If college is your goal, there are programs in Los Angeles that help people with records enroll and succeed in school. From community colleges to universities, getting a degree can increase your earning potential and open doors to more career options.
Where to Start College as a Reentry Student
• L.A. City College (LACC) Rising Scholars Program – Supports students who were formerly incarcerated with advising, financial aid help, and mentorship. Get started here.
• Pasadena City College’s Reentry Program – Helps individuals returning from prison navigate the college process, apply for grants, and access support services. Learn more here.
• Underground Scholars (UCLA & UC Berkeley) – A program designed for formerly incarcerated students who want to earn a university degree. Offers mentoring, scholarships, and a supportive community. Check out UCLA’s program or UC Berkeley’s program.
Step 4: Education Pays Off – Here’s Why
People who take classes while incarcerated are 43% less likely to go back to prison.
A GED or vocational certification can increase your job opportunities by 25-40%.
Higher education means higher earnings—people with degrees make, on average, $1 million more in their lifetime than those without.
Education isn’t just about a diploma—it’s about leveling up your opportunities and breaking cycles of poverty and incarceration. Even small steps—like attending a free workshop or learning a new trade—can lead to major life changes.
Take the Next Step Today
You don’t have to figure this out alone. There are people and programs waiting to help you succeed.
Get one-on-one guidance through On My Grind’s PathFinder program. We’ll help you map out your next steps, whether that’s a GED, job training, or college. Sign up here.
Join our Turning Point program to build the skills needed for career and education success.
Explore local resources for GED, vocational training, or college reentry programs. The first step is reaching out—your future starts today.
No matter where you are in your journey, learning never stops. Each class, each new skill, and each opportunity is a step toward the life you deserve.
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