In a step forward for rehabilitation and reentry preparation, the Allegany County Detention Center has expanded its use of educational tablets to ensure that every incarcerated individual now has access to the Pathway to Achieve™ program. This digital platform—offered through Pay Tel Communications’ inteleTABLET™ devices—provides detainees with access to hundreds of self-paced courses aimed at personal development, education, and life skills, all at no cost to Allegany County taxpayers.

While tablets have been in use at the facility for several years, as of March, enough devices have been issued to provide 100% coverage for the incarcerated population. The program is funded through Pay Tel’s communication services. Incarcerated individuals can choose to purchase communication features such as messaging or email, but many also earn communication time by completing courses—an incentive that encourages personal growth and educational achievement.

“This isn’t just about technology—it’s about transformation,” said Captain Dan Lasher. “These tablets give individuals the chance to learn, reflect, and return to our communities better prepared to contribute in meaningful ways.”

Program Impact (2023–2024 Highlights)

According to the recently released annual report, prepared by Pay Tel:

• 29,312 courses were completed in one year
• Learners spent a total of 3,679 hours engaged in educational content
• 321,039 credits were earned by detainees
• The average learner completed 65 courses, up from 51 the year prior
• 82% of those who completed a risk/need assessment enrolled in courses
• 63% of participants identified a need for addiction recovery support
• 52% reported a desire to improve their mental health
  

Courses range from GED preparation and parenting to cognitive behavioral therapy, anger management, career planning, and addiction recovery. In fact, over 4,000 addiction-related courses were completed in the past year alone—demonstrating the program's alignment with the self-identified needs of participants.

Measurable Value, No Cost to the County

According to a third-party analysis, providing comparable services outside of this platform would cost $1,731.09 per detainee annually. With over 450 participants in 2024 alone, the program has delivered an estimated $782,000+ in educational value over four years—entirely free of charge to Allegany County.

A Smarter, Safer Community

Research consistently shows that correctional education reduces recidivism. A RAND study cited in the report found a 43% lower likelihood of reoffending among individuals who engage in educational programming while incarcerated.

“Investing in rehabilitation isn’t just humane—it’s smart policy,” the report states. “Better education leads to better outcomes, inside and outside the facility.”

View the complete Annual Report here: Pathway to Achieve Annual Report