Dougherty County inmate receives his diploma

Events like these are the reason law enforcement officers come to work.

July 18, 2023

Matthew Crumley,

ALBANY, Ga. – I’m inside a court at the Dougherty County jail where an inmate isn’t letting his past mistake, stop him from getting an education, as he’s getting his diploma today.

“I’m glad I made my mama proud, cause I told her I wasn’t gone do it but I made it. I changed it around I did it,” said Dontavious Tolbert, Dougherty County inmate.

But, an achievement so great couldn’t be done without a little help…

“So I’m just delighted that we were able to partner with Sheriff Sproul and the Dougherty County School System team to make this opportunity happen for him,” said Kenneth Dyer, Superintendent, Dougherty County School System.

The Dougherty County School System takes all hands on deck approach when educating inmates.

“Yes we have instruction packets and we have teachers to come and educators come to work with them on those lessons and once they complete the requirements they take the same test our students take,” said Dyer.

Events like these are the reason law enforcement officers come to work.

“These are one of those days where I’m excited that the people of this county have elected me to be in this position to make a difference in people’s lives,” said Sheriff Kevin Sproul, Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office.

Director of Fresh Start Education Kendra Huff left Tolbert with a strong affirmation.

“I’m capable of accomplishing anything, I’m making positive changes in my life, I love who I am becoming thank you,” said Kendra Huff, Director of Fresh Start Education.