About Adult Education
The Adult Education program provides educational services to Blount County adults in four general areas. The first is assisting students who are working toward a General Education Diploma, or GED. Classes include writing, social studies, science, reading, and mathematics. Both day and evening classes accommodate various student schedules. Once a month officials are on site to administer the official GED test.
A second area is for students who are studying English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Both day and evening classes are available, including computer software for self-study in the computer lab.
The final two areas are for students seeking general community education in computer skills, or literacy and basic skills.
Adult Education activities are carried on throughout the county. Testing and many of the classes are held at Everett Learning Opportunities Center on Jett Road. A pilot program is teaching ESOL in various workplaces. Courses and individual tutoring goes on in other public places including libraries, churches, and the Justice Center in Maryville.
Accomplishments in 2007-2008 school year include:
- 784 students participated in free adult education classes last year
- 256 students received a GED in the 2007-2008 school year
- 62 students enrolled in ESOL activities
- 34 tutors volunteered over 1600 hours last year
The Adult Education program is organized under the control and supervision of the Blount County Superintendent of Schools. It serves the adult students of Alcoa and Maryville, in addition to the rest of the county. The teaching staff includes one full-time and several part-time teachers, all certified and focused on individual needs and goals of adult students. They are supported by volunteer tutors who work with students individually.