Winter 2012 Program Guide Course Catalog

Volunteer Application Form

Registration begins Jan. 9

Learning is lifelong. In Chesterfield County, the school system’s Adult Continuing Education program helps residents 18 and older build exciting, successful futures. Each year, thousands of adults learn through Adult Continuing Education, exemplifying the School Board’s vision of thriving, dynamic and inspiring educational environments that produce self-directed learners and stimulate citizens of all ages to trust in, invest in and benefit from public education.

Adult Continuing Education offers GED® classes and tests, English for Speakers of Other Languages classes, workforce training and enrichment classes:

General Educational Development, also known as GED

A GED certificate is equivalent to a high school diploma. Adults who want to earn a GED undergo an assessment, participate in preparation classes, then take tests in reading, writing, social studies, science and mathematics. Fourteen teachers, day and night classes at seven sites and access to computer labs help adults achieve their GED. Preparation classes cost $50, and tests cost $45. GED students whose children are in Head Start may qualify for free tuition.

English for Speakers of Other Languages, also known as ESOL

Adults learn English in a comfortable environment with friends and family as they improve their reading, writing, listening and speaking. ESOL classes cost $50.

Workforce Training

Workforce training benefits everyone: employees, future employees, employers, families, the greater community. At the Chesterfield Technical Center, Adult Continuing Education offers workforce certification classes in building trades, cosmetology theory, dental assisting, medical assisting, legal systems administration, nail technology, nursing assisting, phlebotomy and heating, ventilation and air conditioning. At Bird High School in partnership with Associated Builders and Contractors, apprenticeship classes are offered in heating, ventilation and air conditioning, electricity and plumbing.

Enrichment Classes

Just-for-fun classes are offered throughout the county in eight high schools. Areas of study (and specific examples) are business essentials (grant writing, workplace manners), computers and technology (web page design, digital photography), financial planning (retirement, debt management), languages (Spanish, sign language), home improvement (interior design, maintenance), arts and crafts (drawing, floral design) and special interest (party decorating, golf). Dozens of other classes are also offered.

Super Senior Passport

Super Senior Passports allow Chesterfield County residents who are 60 and older to take some Adult Continuing Education courses for a discounted fee. Details are included in every Adult Continuing Education program guide. The passport also provides free admission to many school events and games. Call 748-1405 or click here to get a Super Senior Passport.