Laker Nation News

Adult Education and Literacy Programs Provide Economic Opportunity in Illinois

Mattoon, IL – National Adult Education and Literacy Week, September 18-23, 2023, underscores the continued demand for programs and services for adult students who need to improve basic skills in reading, writing, and math and obtain a state of Illinois High School Diploma.  More than 36 million adults nationwide, including 1.2 million here in Illinois, lack basic literacy skills, limiting their ability to advance in education and at work.

Lake Land College is one of more than 72 adult education providers offering programs funded through the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) that improve and expand the nation’s available pipeline of workers by assisting those who lack the educational requirements to achieve gainful employment in today’s increasingly high-tech, global job market.

“Our Adult Education programs reflect our commitment to invest in the members of our local communities by providing pathways for them to complete both their educational and employment goals,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said. “We are proud to offer accessible courses through these programs to set our students up for sustained success in rewarding careers.”

Adult education provides a path from low-income jobs and limited opportunities to middle-class wages and increased family sustainability.  Full-time workers with a high school diploma earn almost $10,000 more annually than those without a diploma.

Adult Education at Lake Land College provides a variety of services and courses to students age 17 and older. The program offers free GED preparation and English language acquisition classes (formerly ESL) that empower students to achieve their academic goals and develop skills necessary for successful employment. Both the GED and English language acquisition classes are available in multiple locations throughout the Lake Land district.

The Lake Land College Adult Education program also offers two Integrated Career and Academic Preparation System (ICAPS) programs leading to certificates in welding or basic nursing assisting (BNA). All ICAPS programs are free of charge to students who meet the eligibility criteria. ICAPS class locations also rotate throughout the district to provide accessibility to students living in various communities.

“With partnerships across nearly 10,000 unique employers across the state, Illinois Community Colleges are the engines that drive industry in their local communities and across the state. So many good-paying jobs require education beyond high school but don’t necessarily require the time and cost of earning a 4-year degree. Community Colleges meet the education needs of Illinoisans at every life stage,” said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham.

In recognition of National Adult Education and Literacy Week, Lake Land College would like to recognize the accomplishments of many of our Adult Education graduates. During a ceremony on May 16, 2023, Lake Land celebrated 48 GED graduates.

For more information about adult education programs and services at Lake Land College, visit lakelandcollege.edu/adult-education or call 217-238-8292.

For information on adult education throughout Illinois visit https://www.iccb.org/adult_ed.

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