Keep your behavioral expectations simple and clear. Identify about five expectations that are vital to the progress and the success of the class. These might include regular attendance and punctuality. The inmates must develop habits of arriving and being on time to appointments if they are going to transition back to the workforce. Include a seating chart assignment and require the students to report to their assigned "work place," giving them a sense of structure. Demand productivity, too. If they are in the class they must do whatever activity the class is doing and complete the task during the class period. Require respectful conduct at all times. Don't tolerate profanity and insults of other students. Require that the students follow instructions. Post these principles on the wall and review them frequently.
Establish consequences for breaking the rules. A first offense could bring a verbal warning. Upon a second offense you could ask an inmate to sit apart from the group in the classroom yet remain as a participant. Upon a third violation you can use a whistle, buzzer, or other alarm system to notify security that a student must be removed. Fill out a written report of the incident and go over it with the student after the class or before allowing the student to come back to class. Prison authorities may choose to punish students who repeatedly violate the rules, perhaps by limiting recreation or visiting time.
Offer rewards for following the rules. Raffle tickets for small items at the prison store are appropriate. You can offer students chances to earn gum, candy, or sodas by meeting expectations. Negotiate additional free time in the yard with the prison staff as an added incentive for good behavior.
Enforce the rules calmly and consistently. Speak clearly and restate the expectation. Name the behavior you see occurring. Remind the student of the consequences of his actions. Apply consistently the consequences without argument or discussion. The inmates must know at all times that you are in control and that you do not fear outbursts.