For Hometown News
TREASURE COAST -
Taking a big step toward a brighter future, 442 Treasure Coast residents have earned their high school diplomas through Indian River State College this year.
Throughout the 2011-12 school year, the graduates earned high-school credits in IRSC's adult high school or completed preparation and passed the general educational development exam at IRSC adult education sites throughout St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River and Okeechobee counties.
IRSC adult education graduates participated in the IRSC high school diploma ceremony on May 15.
"IRSC adult education career pathways students are encouraged to select a career pathway and take college courses either while enrolled in adult education classes or upon graduation to enhance their earning potential," sid Libby Livings-Eassa, assistant dean of adult education.
"In today's economy, post-secondary education is integral to our citizen's earning a sustainable wage."
IRSC's adult education career pathways program has seven career academies to help students enter the college's health science, technology, public safety, business, industrial, education and STEM spell out on first ref. disciplines.
Many graduates will continue their education in one of IRSC's certificate or degree programs.
The IRSC adult education program awards thousands per year in scholarships through the IRSC Foundation.
Based on high academic achievement, an academic scholarship will be awarded to Christopher Baker of Port St. Lucie. Mr. Baker will pursue his education at IRSC to earn a graphics design and technology associates of science degree.
Along with 41 graduates receiving more than $50,000 in scholarships, several graduates were inducted into the National Adult Education Honor Society. These students were selected by faculty for outstanding cooperation, attendance and self-reliance in the IRSC adult education program.
During the 2011-12 school year to date, 367 students passed the GED exam and 75 successfully completed the adult high school program at IRSC.
Students in GED classes progress at their own pace to review high-school subjects prior to taking the GED equivalency exam. Students in the adult high school program earn high-school credits in traditional high-school subjects.
In addition to GED preparation, adult high school and adult basic education, IRSC's adult education program also includes English as a second language classes.
IRSC adult education students can participate in dual or co-enrollment in several postsecondary programs.
For more information, call (866) 792-4772 or visit www.irscAECP.edu.