Changes in GED cause urgency to complete program before 2014

 Did you know there are over one million Ohioans without a high school certification?

 Ohio Hi-Point Career Center’s Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) program looks to decrease this number by providing adults the knowledge and skills to earn the equivalent of a high school diploma.

 The ABLE program is urging adults to take advantage of the opportunity to complete the GED test before 2014.

 The framework of the GED test will alter in 2014 and may cost individuals up to three times more from the current price. In addition, prior test scores will not be counted.

 ABLE is state and federally funded through the Ohio Department of Education and coordinated through Hi-Point’s main campus in Bellefontaine, Ohio. The program is available for adults at no charge.

 “With the program changing it’s going to become more difficult to afford. Time is ticking to make the change for a better future. This is important information I want people to be aware of the benefits associated with a high school certification, ” stated Sharon Halter, ABLE Coordinator.

 The benefits of a high school certification are apparent in terms of income as those with a high school certification earn $403,000 more in his or her lifetime than an individual without certification.

 In addition, adults can improve work abilities by becoming more confident in mathematics, science, reading and writing. These skills, too, can assist adults who continue onto a college or university.

 Today, 98 percent of colleges accept applications from adults who passed the GED test as equivalent to high school graduation and 68 percent of adults who complete their GED aspire to study at a college or university.

 “It’s a need and that’s why we’re here,” stated Halter.

Don’t hesitate; classes begin in January.

Ohio Hi-Point Career Center’s Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) Classes begin in Champaign County at Champaign County C-TEC and Logan County at Ohio Hi-Point Career Center on Monday, January 23 at 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

 GED start dates in Hardin County at Rhodes State College Learning Lab begin Monday, January 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

 In Union County at Marysville One-Stop classes begin Monday, January 30 from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

 In Russells Point at Galilee Lutheran Church classes begin Tuesday, January 24 from 4 pm. to 7 p.m.

 Classes are free to the public.

Please call to register or gain additional information about the ABLE/GED Program at 937-599-3010 Ext 1406 or shalter@ohiohipoint.com.