Getting your education back on track: Adult learning options

Life doesn’t always go as planned. Maybe you had to leave high school early to work or help your family. Maybe you had no school options because you grew up in a remote home. Or maybe you’re new to the USA and didn’t have a secondary education. Whatever your story, it’s never too late to continue your education here in the Mat-Su Borough.

Many adults think they’ve missed their chance of getting a high school diploma. Thankfully, that’s not true. Alaska offers several ways for adults to earn their General Educational Development certificate, better known as a GED. This certificate is just as good as a regular high school diploma for getting jobs or getting access to college.

The GED test covers four major subjects that are taught in high school. These are math, science, social studies, and language arts. You don’t have to sit in a classroom for four years to take these tests. Instead, you can study at your own speed and take each test when you feel ready.

In our area, the University of Alaska Anchorage has a campus right here in Palmer called Mat-Su College. They offer free GED preparation classes to help you get ready for the tests. These classes happen at various times, so you can fit them around your work schedule. The teachers understand that adult students have different needs than teenagers. They know you might have kids to pick up from school or jobs that keep you busy.

The Palmer campus also helps with basic reading and math skills. If you’ve been out of school for many years, you might feel rusty with these subjects. That’s completely normal. The instructors will work with you to build your confidence and skills before you tackle the GED tests.

For those who speak English as a second language, there are special classes to help them learn English while also preparing for their GED. These classes understand that learning a new language takes time and patience. The teachers use methods that help you practice English in real-life situations you’ll face in Mat-Su.

The Alaska Job Corps Center is another option for people who are between 16 and 24 years old. They provide the classes and guidance you need in the same way, and also can provide housing and trade education beyond that Diploma or GED.

Taking GED classes or earning your diploma can open many doors. Employers often require at least a high school education for better-paying jobs. Many trade schools and colleges also require a diploma or GED before you can enroll in their programs. Even if you’re happy with your current job, having that diploma gives you more options for the future.

The cost of these programs is very reasonable. Most GED preparation classes are free or cost very little. There is a cost to take the actual GED tests, but financial help is available for people who qualify.

Getting started is easier than you might think. You can call Mat-Su College at 907-745-9774 to ask about their programs. You can also reach the state’s Alaska Adult Education office at 907-465-4685 or ak.adult.ed@alaska.gov. The Alaska Job Corps Center can be called at 800-733-5627. These places have friendly staff who can answer your questions and help you figure out which program works best for your schedule and goals.

Many adults earn their GED every year in Alaska. There have been more than 20 million GED graduates in the United States since its inception in 1942. You’re not alone on this journey. The first step is simply making that phone call or visiting one of these programs. Your future self will thank you for taking action today. Education is an investment that no one can ever take away from you.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.