Participants who attend the session will learn about the continuing education programs, online classes, activity courses for citizens 50 years and older, GED and ESL classes and information on how the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can assist new and growing businesses. The goal of the "Bound for College" series is to introduce the variety of programs and services that are available for virtually every age group and segment of the local population.
Discussion on the continuing education opportunities will include the use of the online "Ed2Go" classes, hobby or personal enrichment classes and professional development courses. GCC offers an extensive list of online courses through a unique Ed2Go program. Most courses are $85 and last six weeks. "Not only are Ed2Go courses convenient, they can be offered to an individual without having to wait until a minimum class size is enrolled," said Shelle Cassell, GCC Director of Marketing and Public Information. "Our continuing education program includes the SAVE (Senior Avocational Vocational Education) classes for citizens who are 50 years or older, and a new Kids College program for summer," Cassell said.
The Dec. 13 workshop will also detail three main segments of the adult education program. GCC Adult Basic Education Coordinator Donna Byrum will explain the "Refresher Classes", GED classes and the ESL program.
"All of our classes are free, and offered during the day and evening at numerous locations throughout several counties," Byrum said. "Additionally," Byrum adds, "our classes are student centered so the adults work at their own pace and make decisions about what and how they will study. We help the learners determine their own learning style and work diligently to accommodate their needs."
Byrum explained that Refresher classes are for those who already have a high school diploma but want to refresh their skills to prepare for college classes or to improve their workplace skills. The GED classes prepare students to pass the equivalency exam, which includes math, reading, language, social studies, science and a two-page essay.
"Our English language classes include speaking, listening, reading and writing in English," she said.
Dr. Karen Stidham, director of the SBDC, will offer information on how her program helps new and growing businesses succeed. The SBDC offers many free or low cost workshops that focus on popular business trends.
Reservations are not required for this free information session. For more information contact Enrollment Advisor Charles Leslie at lesliec@grayson.edu or 903-415-2532.