Commissioner: Homer Bryson

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Distribution begins

FORSYTH, Ga. – Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the newest step in the agency’s educational programming for the state’s offender population with the distribution of Georgia Offender Alternative Learning (G.O.A.L.) devices. These devices are specially customized tablet computers that will allow the offender population the ability to access educational materials 24/7, regardless of location within the facility; maintain and enhance family communications; and assist with their reentry into society.

“With Governor Nathan Deal’s focus on offender education through his Criminal Justice Reform efforts, the addition of the G.O.A.L. devices was an obvious next step,” said Commissioner Homer Bryson. “In addition to offering continuous access to educational materials, we are now expanding options for offender communication with their families, which is very important to an offender’s reentry into society.”

These ruggedized tablets will come pre-loaded with inmate handbooks as well as motivational books and educational materials specific to an offender’s case plan. Devices do not have internet access, however additional educational content, provided by Khan Academy Lite, can be accessed by loading materials through a secure kiosk. These kiosks will also allow offenders the ability to send and receive secure emails through the kiosks as well as have video visits with their families.

Since November 2015, GDC has distributed a total of 3,258 tablets to female offenders at Emanuel Women’s Facility, West Central Integrated Treatment Facility, Lee Arrendale State Prison, Pulaski State Prison, and Whitworth Women’s Facility.  Male offenders are scheduled to start receiving G.O.A.L. devices in late December 2015. The first male facilities set to receive these devices are Walker, Lee, Macon and Montgomery State Prisons.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners.  It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit gdc.ga.gov.