For nearly two decades, inmates at the Hampden County Jail and House of Correction have contributed to literary and artistic newsletters published by the education department. Although the publications have evolved and changed names more than once (Behind the Walls became Tutor Talk became The Pen), the purpose has always been to provide an opportunity for inmate-students to see their writing in print, including poems, essays, letters, movie reviews, and articles, with other inmates and staff.

In The Pen, students write of their trials, tribulations, hopes, dreams, frustrations, and fears. They write about their parents, their children, their shortcomings, and their struggles with addiction and anger. Students also contribute impressive artwork. Shortly after September 11, a cover drawing ("One Nation Equal") of an American eagle with one tear streaming down its face as its wings embraced the Twin Towers and Pentagon paid homage to those lost in the attacks. Another powerful cover art was that of a mother sitting beside a river gently bathing her newborn son ("Mother Bathing Son," September 2000).

A regular feature of The Pen is "Trivia Time," which prompts students to make a dash for reference works in search of answers to somewhat obscure questions (Example: Where, in March 1946, did Winston Churchill deliver his famous "Iron Curtain" speech?*). The Pen also is a vehicle to publicize students who complete their GED at the Hampden Sheriff's Department (just over 3,200 at last count), and those men and women who earn recognition as students of the month.

*As a guest of President Truman at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri.

Rodney Wilson began his teaching career at a St. Louis high school in 1990. He has served as Title I teacher at the Hampden County Jail and House of Correction since November 1999.