6 Guidelines Related to Prison Rules & Regulations

Importance of Following DOC Rules

It is critical that we follow all DOC rules. The DOC can permanently ban certain individuals or our entire program from any facility at any time, for any number of reasons. Our program requires DOC staff support, and we rely on the good will of the institutions every day. If you do not understand a rule, please ask DOC politely for an explanation, and/or report the confusion to the OBB program manager.

Gifts

• Do not give monetary or in-kind gifts to the education staff or security staff on behalf of UW-Madison or OBB. If you are interested in additional ways to thank or show your support for DOC staff, contact the OBB program manager, who is familiar with DOC regulations and protocol.

Student and Instructor Names

• The DOC asks us to refer to students by their last name (e.g., Mr. Smith, rather than John), and they also ask the students use our last names (e.g., Professor Jones). DOC may be shifting towards eliminating titles for prison residents (e.g., Smith, rather than Mr. Smith). This guidance is evolving, and we will update this page as necessary.
• Some prisons may be more flexible with this no-first-name policy, so it is best to clarify with the volunteer supervisor or education director during the prison orientation and training session. However, prison residents must always refer to prison staff by last name, and vice versa; see below.
• If your site is flexible, ask each student: “What do you prefer to be called?” Some will offer their last name, some a first name, and others a nickname.
• Call prison staff by Dr./Mr./Mrs./Ms. Lastname, especially when addressing staff in front of students. When discussing students with DOC staff, refer to the students by their last names.

“Coming to [Oakhill Correctional Institution] was definitely a step backward in my path, and then I discovered this class where I was—or more like my writing was—accepted. But what really gave me sparkle in my heart’s eye was what good it brings out in you and for others.” —Danny, class of Fall 2021