The most meaningful, long-range measure of any prison's real effectiveness is the success in reducing the number of offenders who are reincarcerated once they are released. Sound correctional practice demands the inclusion of a variety of programs to address the many needs of the inmate population. This report focuses on education and substance abuse treatment, areas that have been extensively researched and provide evidence of effectiveness. Educational and substance abuse programs quickly pay for themselves in lower costs of community policing, prosecution, and incarceration. Research shows the effectiveness of these programs offering a better return on prison investments. However, for educational and treatment programs to succeed, upper prison management must support these programs and ensure that inmates are actively engaged in these interventions. The principles of an effective educational and substance abuse treatment program are outlined and include: assessment, structure and intensity, cognitive focus, duration and continuity, and aftercare. Figures, charts, appendixes, and endnotes