One of every three adults age 25 and older in Southwest Virginia does not possess a high school diploma. National research indicates the mean annual earnings of adults lacking a high school diploma or a GED were only slightly over $14,000 versus nearly $23,300 for high school graduates. Studies also show that these adults contribute less to local governments in the form of tax payments and place a greater per person demand on a variety of government services.
Funding from the Tobacco Commission is helping to assure that adults in the region’s workforce without basic skills do not get left behind. Three regional adult education programs serving 15 counties and cities applied jointly for funding to expand GED testing, to provide scholarships for testing and to provide marketing to publicize the services that are available (click here to see a regional TV ad). The first grant in 2004 enabled testing on demand, a new policy that allows partial testing of first-time examinees. By 2006-2007, 2,098 individuals were tested and 1,461 obtained a GED - a 24% increase in two years and clear evidence that the message is being heard and that adults more fully realize the necessity of obtaining a high school credential. Subsequent Education and Special Projects grants have allowed expansion of programs and the creation of a new program to assist GED graduates in transitioning to two community colleges in the region.
The three regional program managers agree that the single greatest benefit from this funding has been a quantum leap in the visibility of program services for learners and partnering agencies. One program recorded a 55% increase in the number of telephone inquiries from the prior year. In addition, new testing centers have been opened and more frequent testing is offered, resulting in the need for the implementation of more adult education classes – all of which is possible due to the support of the Tobacco Commission.
For more information about the Virginia GED program, click here.
Mount Rogers Regional Adult Education Program
Throughout Virginia thousands of adults are learning basic job skills and earning their GED (General Educational Development diploma). The Mount Rogers Regional Adult Education Program provides opportunities for free daytime and evening classes to those participants who wish to improve their chance for meaningful, gainful employment. Classes take place year round and students can enroll anytime. All instruction and textbooks are free of charge.
The Regional Adult Education Program
The Regional Adult Education Program offers free basic skills instruction to adults living in the counties
of Lee, Scott, Wise, and the City of Norton.
Classes offered include: Adult Reading 1-to-1 Classes,
Basic Skills Small Group Classes,
GED Study Classes and
On-Site and Off-site Workplace Focus Classes.
The Southwest Regional Adult Education Program
The Southwest Regional Adult Education Program offers free basic skills instruction to adult students, 18 and older, living in the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell in Virginia. Programs are designed to meet the needs of adults who have not completed high school. Classes are offered in Adult Basic Education/Pre-GED and GED preparation. All classes are free and are conveniently located throughout the region.
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