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 YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
CTF marks National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) commemorated National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2026 with a series of events held April 20-24.…
Watch: Franco finds Second Chance via mentor program
Maria Franco, formerly incarcerated at Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla, was serving a 34-to-life sentence when she began…
Watch: At MCRP, Bernal finds Second Chance
Incarcerated at 19 years old, Steven Bernal doubted change was possible for him as he faced decades in prison. “I…
Undersecretary observes VR program at CMC
CDCR Undersecretary Jason Johnson visited California Men’s Colony (CMC) to observe the Creative Acts Virtual Reality (VR) Program. Johnson observed…
RJD hosts Crime Victims’ Rights Week event
RJ Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) recently hosted a National Crime Victims’ Rights Week awareness event for staff and the incarcerated…
CMC hosts annual Day for Atonement
California Men’s Colony (CMC) in San Luis Obispo hosted its annual Day for Atonement event in the Protestant Chapel on…