Adult Basic and Literacy Education

The Issue

Limited basic skills are a widespread problem among thousands of adults in Erie County. Low reading and math skills impact employability and earnings. Nearly 10% of adults do not have a high school diploma.  Adults without a high school diploma are more than 2x as likely to live in poverty than high school graduates, and more than 3x as likely to be unemployed than adults with college degrees.  Low literacy skills are directly linked to inequality, higher rates of unemployment, lower income, and poor health.

Our Impact

GECAC's Adult Education is focused on helping motivated adult learners along their educational journey and a career path to improve their employment and earnings.

Overview

GECAC Adult Education welcomes adults who are interested in improving their basic skills in reading, writing, and math or earning a high school equivalency credential.  Classes are free and designed to meet the student's needs by increasing academic skills while providing opportunities to learn about careers and employment.  All classes include career exploration and labor market information to help plan for the future.

High School Equivalency Preparation Classes

The high school equivalency credential is a stepping stone to meeting employment or further education goals. Language arts, science, social studies, and math are taught in preparation for the GED® or HiSET® tests. 

Adult Basic Education Classes

Students work at their own pace; learning basic skills of reading, writing, and math.

Classes are held at:

GED Classes/Adult Education classes are being held in-person and virtually for current and new students. Call (814) 459-4581 Ext. 652 to speak to an Adult Education staff member.

GECAC 
18 West 9th Street
Erie, PA 16501

Erie Heights
2020 Garden Avenue
Erie, PA 16508

Mercy Anchor Community Center
1039 East 27th Street
Erie PA 16504

Enrollment

  • Age 18 and older
  • Not enrolled in high school
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Request More Info

Beth Terp
Program Manager
(814) 459-4581 Ext. 652
bterp@gecac.org