Education, vocational training, faith-based housing, and reentry services at Luther Unit — what families should know

Want to help your loved one make the most of their time at Luther Unit? Start with what's officially listed. The unit's education programs include Literacy (Adult Basic Education/GED), Special Education, and Title I services. You'll also see CHANGES/Pre-Release and a Cognitive Intervention program on the roster. These names give you a solid starting point for conversations - both with your loved one and when calling the unit. What the public listing won't tell you is who's currently enrolled or when the next spot opens up. For that, you'll need to confirm directly with the unit.

• ✓ Electrical Trades
• ✓ Welding (including Lee College vocational welding and advanced welding)
• ✓ Automotive Specialization (Brakes)

Luther Unit also lists services that matter when you're thinking about support and transition. There's a Faith-Based Dormitory and Chaplaincy Services available. The unit's additional programs include the GO KIDS Initiative and Reentry Planning. If your loved one is working toward a stable release, these are the program names to reference when you talk with them or call to ask what's currently open.

1. Gather the basics before you call - have your loved one’s name and TDCJ number ready, plus the exact program name you’re asking about (for example: ABE/GED, CHANGES/Pre-Release, Welding, Faith-Based Dormitory, or Reentry Planning).
2. Call the Luther Unit and ask for program participation info - explain that you’re trying to confirm whether your loved one is enrolled in (or eligible for) the specific program listed in the unit directory.
3. Ask what the next step is for that program - if they aren’t currently participating, ask what the unit requires to request the program, and whether there are eligibility limits or availability constraints.
4. Write down what you’re told - note the date/time of the call, the program name you asked about, and any follow-up steps you need to take or your loved one needs to take inside the unit.

The Luther Unit directory shows what programs exist, but it won't tell you whether a specific person is enrolled. To find that out, contact the unit directly. Reference the exact program name - whether that's ABE/GED, CHANGES/Pre-Release, welding, the Faith-Based Dormitory, or Reentry Planning.

Questions to Ask

• ✓ Is [name, TDCJ number] currently enrolled in [program name]?
• ✓ If not, are they eligible to participate?
• ✓ Is there a waitlist right now?
• ✓ Who manages or coordinates this program at the unit?
• ✓ What steps does my loved one need to take inside the unit to request it?
• ✓ Is any documentation needed from family?
• ✓ Are there limits based on custody level, time left to serve, or other criteria?

Have the TDCJ number in front of you when you call. It’s the fastest way for staff to find the right person and answer your question without back-and-forth.

The Luther Unit directory is helpful for seeing what's offered, but it skips the details families actually need - schedules, class start dates, capacity, priority rules, and enrollment steps. Some services are listed as available only "upon availability," meaning openings depend on staffing and space. Think of the directory as a menu, not a guarantee. Your loved one may not be able to start right away. For the most accurate picture, confirm current availability with the unit directly.

1. Confirm the program is currently running - ask whether the specific program/service is active right now at Luther.
2. Check for waitlists or limited seats - ask if there’s a backlog and how placements are decided.
3. Ask for the exact request/enrollment path - find out what your loved one must do to be considered (and whether family can submit anything that helps).
4. Re-check if circumstances change - if your loved one’s status, housing, or release timeline changes, call again and confirm what options are open.