A contested working paper linking prison higher‑education participation to higher rates of reincarceration for technical violations has spurred responses from national prison‑education advocates and researchers. Critics argue the study’s findings reflect supervision and work‑release policies rather than the effect of education itself. Coalitions such as the Alliance for Higher Education in Prison say broader evidence supports education’s role in reducing recidivism and improving employment outcomes; they contend the paper’s results point to systemic supervision practices that increase technical‑violation risk for returning citizens. Authors of rebuttals and letters call for policy focus on release decisions and supervision intensity, not curtailing education programs. Policymakers and corrections officials now face pressure to reassess how education is considered in parole and work‑release placement to avoid unintended consequences and to preserve access to college programs shown to improve long‑term outcomes.