Rehabilitation

Debate rematch: Valley State Prison vs Fresno State

Valley State Adult School (VSAS) at Valley State Prison hosted its second debate against California State University, Fresno. Held in the gym, 21 incarcerated students participated, engaging in four different debates on various societal topics for 40-50 minutes each. The first two debates showcased VSAS students against Fresno State students, while the third and fourth debates featured mixed teams.

“Our students are incredibly excited about the debate. It provides them with a unique opportunity to engage critically with important issues and showcase their knowledge and skills,” said Warden Morales.

Fresno State staff were helped by Valley State Prison’s incarcerated population to score the debates. The prison’s media center live-streamed the entire event for friends and family.

“These events create a vibrant atmosphere of learning and engagement among our staff, incarcerated students, and Fresno State participants. It’s a remarkable experience for everyone involved,” said Vice Principal G. Adams.

Submitted by Lt. H. Gastelum
Valley State Prison


Read more rehabilitation stories.

Visit Inside CDCR to read about the first Valley State vs. Fresno State debate.

Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.

Related content

Correctional Training Facility at Soledad, California, Rising Scholars program group photo with Hartnell College.

A closer look at CTF Rising Scholars program

The Rising Scholars from Within (RSFW) program at the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) is a partnership with Hartnell College. The…

A naloxone dispenser in a CDCR prison with a quote from the head of nursing.

Life‑saving era: CDCR expands naloxone access

To decrease overdose deaths in California prisons, CDCR has expanded unprecedented access to naloxone. Commonly known by its brand name,…

Incarcerated people play flag football at California Institution for Men, also known as CIM, in Chino.

Watch: Bonding on the Field: CIM flag football

On a foggy Friday afternoon at California Institution for Men (CIM) in Chino, competition and camaraderie came together as players…

A softball game at Centinela State Prison with Saints Prison Ministry as a rehabilitation effort in California.

Centinela hosts Saints Prison Ministry softball

Saints Prison Ministry visited Centinela State Prison (CEN) to engage incarcerated persons on three facilities in friendly yet competitive softball…

Sacramento County Probation and the Office of Education tour Valley State Prison (VSP) rehabilitation programs.

Probation, education leaders tour VSP

Valley State Prison (VSP) recently welcomed probation and education leaders on tours to learn more about rehabilitation efforts. The two…

During a visit to the Valley State Prison barbershop, Vic Blends taught the incarcerated students about techniques and tools.

Vic Blends makes surprise visit to Valley State Prison

On a recent afternoon, the newly renovated Valley State Prison barbershop was buzzing with excitement, but students had no idea…