Press Release  Massachusetts Department of Correction and The Last Mile Celebrate Graduates from Coding Program at MCI-Shirley 

SHIRLEY — The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) and The Last Mile (TLM), a national nonprofit dedicated to providing technology education and reentry support for incarcerated individuals, celebrated the graduation of six students from the coding and web development program at MCI-Shirley during a ceremony on March 23.

The graduating students successfully completed a one-year curriculum focused on in-demand technology skills, including web development, coding, and software engineering. The program is designed to prepare participants for sustainable employment opportunities in the technology sector upon release, supporting long-term stability and successful reintegration in their communities.

Since the program began in 2024, the program has produced 10 graduates and trained 50 participants.

“This program reflects our shared commitment to evidence-based reentry strategies that connect individuals with industry-relevant skills,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “I commend the DOC and The Last Mile for their continued collaboration and dedication to expanding opportunity.”

“The Department continues to expand educational and vocational programming because we know that preparation for release is critical to long-term success.” said DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “Programs like The Last Mile equip individuals with marketable skills that support employment, reduce recidivism, and ultimately enhance public safety.”

The Last Mile’s curriculum offers hands-on instruction in modern web development and software engineering. Students begin with foundational programming languages such as HTML and CSS, progressing to more advanced concepts including graphic design and full-stack development. Instruction takes place five days a week and is supplemented by virtual learning opportunities. Many instructors are TLM alumni, providing mentorship and firsthand insight into career pathways following release.

“The Last Mile is incredibly proud to celebrate this graduating cohort at the MCI-Shirley facility. Our students have worked through our comprehensive curriculum to develop new skills and create opportunities for their future,” said Kevin McCracken, Executive Director of The Last Mile. “We extend our deepest gratitude to the Massachusetts Department of Correction, the staff at Shirley, Governor Healey's office, and our team at The Last Mile for their support in making this program a success.”

In addition to the program at the facility, The Last Mile provides robust post-release reentry support. Graduates leave the program with professional portfolios to share with prospective employers and receive assistance with job placement, continued education, and workforce connections through TLM’s network of industry partners.

The Last Mile currently operates in seven states, including Massachusetts, and has served more than 1,200 participants nationwide. According to TLM, program alumni have achieved a post-release employment rate of approximately 75 percent, with a recidivism rate of less than 5 percent.

Massachusetts is recognized as a national leader in recidivism reduction. According to the most recent DOC report, participation in educational, vocational and other programming decreased one-year recidivism rates, by more than half in some cases.

About The Last Mile

The Last Mile (TLM) is a California–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides education and training opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. Through in-prison education, transitional support, and workforce reentry services, TLM works to improve outcomes for people returning to their communities across the United States. Its curricula prepare students for modern, in-demand roles such as web development, software engineering, and audio and video production. Alongside technical instruction, participants receive personal and professional development support from TLM’s reentry staff, volunteers, and a community rooted in shared lived experience. 

About the Massachusetts Department of Correction  

The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) manages the custody, care, and rehabilitation of approximately 6,000 individuals across 13 state facilities. The DOC emphasizes evidence-based programming, trauma-informed care and educational and vocational training to reduce recidivism and is committed to fostering accountability, personal growth and successful reentry. Through partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders, the DOC delivers innovative services tailored to the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals while advancing equity, inclusion and long-term public safety.  

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