Article provided by Jamie Fleury The Pilot News Staff Writer
PLYMOUTH — Plymouth Community School Adult Education Director Deb Sherwood updated the Plymouth Community School Corporation (PCSC) Board of Directors on the Career and Workforce Readiness programs.
Formerly, the program was known as the General Education Development (GED) Program. Branding was broadened to Career and Workforce Readiness Programs.
According to Sherwood’s report, the State of Indiana ranked high nationally as a leader in creating career opportunities for Hoosiers. Indiana ranked first for Adult Learner Achievement in State-measurable skills gained. When enrolled each student is assessed on reading, math, writing, and language arts skills. From that pre-test to the post-test; skills attainment and improvement are measured.
Indiana ranked third in the nation for High School Equivalencies (HSE), which was formerly known as the GED.
Indiana ranked seventh in their approach to Integrated Education and Training (IET).
Adult Education Programs offered locally include Adult Basic Education (ABE): Literacy to College Readiness levels and HSE preparation.
The English Language Learners (ELL) program includes reading, listening, speaking, writing, civics, and citizenship training. The class is growing and will soon be offered again at St. Michael’s Catholic School. “We were there eight years ago. It just really works out great.”
Career and workforce readiness programs include Soft Skills – Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Reading for Information, Applied Mathematics, and Career Coaching and Exploration.
Adult Education Programs, which are also called services, focus more on training and certifications including Integration of Education and Training (IET), Workforce Education Initiative (WEI) and Short Term Training and Certifications.
A partnership with Workforce Education Consultants offers adults an opportunity to be trained as a Certified Logistics Associate (CLA).
Recently a collaboration with Monroe County Adult Education has provided an opportunity for clients to access Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician training through an online program.
Ivy Tech partners with Plymouth Adult Education to offer Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machine Operator training.
This is the third year that Child Development Associate (CDA) Training has been offered with Elkhart Adult Education.
Students are sent to the SCILL Center for Welding Training. A future goal is to align the Welding opportunity with the Career Technical Education (CTE) classes in the evening as well.
A Paraprofessional training program is being developed with a focus on individuals who want to work in the field of education as an aide.
Training in Quick Books is on the horizon along with the return of Certified Nurse Aid (CNA) training. “We are always looking for more opportunities.”
The Lincoln Education Center in Plymouth is the hub for the program within the heart of Marshall County. Additional outreach efforts throughout the county include the Marshall County Jail, St. Isidore Hall in Bremen, Argos Public Library, Walkerton Lincoln Township Public Library, and David’s Courage.
“One of our biggest outreaches, it was a goal for years, was to be at the County Jail.” HSE classes and IET CLA training has grown among the population.
Sherwood detailed in-person, distance learning, online programs, required independent studies, and virtual class opportunities.
Further outreach initiatives include Saint Katharine Kasper Serenity Place, the Serenity Home, and the Plymouth motels.
Questions should be emailed to dsherwood@plymouth.k12.in.us. Call 1-574-936-7268 or 1-574-780-6334 for more information.
