Adult Basic Education
The Issue
Limited basic skills is 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 low-skilled adult learners advance along a career path and improve their employment and earnings.
- 92% of GECAC's students pass the GED® Tests, which is more than the state standard of 84%.
- 65% of students looking for work got jobs, which is more than the state standard of 44%.
- 63% of the students entered higher education or training above the state standard of 20%.
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 students' 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 meet 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 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
Enrollment
- Age 17 or older
- Not enrolled in high school
