Adult Education

High School Equivalency

• Flexible scheduling: Classes are offered during the day, evening and weekends, available both in-person and virtually to accommodate different schedules.
• Exam preparation: Comprehensive study guides, practice tests and tutoring for obtaining GED/HiSET credentials.
• Testing support: Assistance with registration, test-taking strategies, and anxiety management.

Literacy Programs

• Adult literacy: Tailored programs to increase literacy levels among adults.
• Family literacy: Partnerships with local Great Start collaboratives to support family literacy.

Community Partnerships

• Comprehensive support: Collaboration with local organizations to provide access to mental health services, wellness workshops, parenting support, childhood preschool enrollment, housing assistance, transportation and more.
• Work Skills Partnerships: Collaborations with Capital Area Michigan Works!, Peckham and other organizations to offer support for work-related skills.

Improved Job Prospects

• Higher employability: Increased qualifications and skills lead to better job opportunities.
• Earning potential: Higher education levels are associated with increased wages.
• Career advancement: Access to promotions and higher-level positions.

Enhanced Literacy

• Better communication: Improved reading and writing skills for personal and professional interactions.
• Increased confidence: Higher literacy levels boost self-esteem and independence.
• Lifelong learning: Foundation for further education and personal growth.

High School Equivalency (GED/HiSET)

• Educational achievement: The pride and accomplishment of earning a high school equivalency credential.
• Further education: Eligibility for college programs and vocational training.
• Personal fulfillment: Achieving a key milestone and setting a positive example for family and community.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Eaton RESA Adult Education:

1. How old are your students? 

Our students come from all adult stages of life, ranging from ages 18 to 108! Our program is designed to best fit the needs of adult lives, with flexible scheduling in various time blocks and an atmosphere mirroring a workplace setting or college class.

We welcome learners ages 16 and 17 only through a referral with WIOA Youth (please ask us if you would like more information). We can also help refer those under 18 to other programs in the area for either GED/HiSET coursework or a diploma track.

2. How long does the program take to complete? 

That depends on your starting point, goals, and how much time you can commit. Some students finish in a few months; others may take a year or more. We’ll help you create a plan that works for your schedule.

3. Where and when are your classes offered? 

We offer flexible class schedules, including morning, afternoon, and evening options, at multiple locations (and sometimes online). Our in-person classrooms are conveniently located throughout Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties, thanks to our wonderful community partners:

• Briggs District Library (St. Johns)

• Capital Area Michigan Works! (Lansing)

• Caterpillar Corner (Holt)

• Delta Township District Library (West Lansing)

• East Lansing Public Library

• Eaton Rapids Greyhound Central

• Mason Community Services

• Vermontville Community Center

We're also proud to provide classes directly to students at Mid-Michigan Recovery Services and within the Eaton and Clinton County jails, ensuring accessibility for even more learners. Our main offices are at Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) Lansing.

We’ll work with you to find the best fit.

4. What if my schedule changes after I sign up for a class? 

Life happens—we get it! If your schedule changes, please let us know. We’ll do our best to help you find another class or option that fits your new availability.

5. Should I work toward my high school equivalency (HSE) certificate or finish my high school diploma? Do you offer a high school diploma track? 

It depends on your goals. An HSE (GED or HiSET) is often quicker to complete and is accepted by most colleges and employers, providing a true measure of your academic skills. We provide high school equivalency preparation classes for the attainment of a HiSET or GED credential.

A high school diploma might be better if you’re missing just a few credits. We do not offer a high school diploma track. However, we can help you determine the best path for you and refer you to a partner that does provide a high school diploma track if you are interested in pursuing that.

6. Can my family and friends come to graduation? 

Absolutely! We celebrate your successes and the beginning of the next chapter of your life with a General Education Diploma (GED)/High School Equivalency (HSE) graduation ceremony! All are welcome.

7. How much does the program cost? 

Our classes are offered at no cost to the learner. While there may be testing fees for GED or HiSET exams, vouchers are available that cover the cost of the officially proctored GED/HiSET exams. These vouchers are issued for test subjects who have received a "likely to pass" on the GED Ready Test.

8. Do I need to have my own computer or internet to join classes? 

For in-person classes, no equipment is needed. For virtual classes, students must have their cameras on and/or be able to screen share, at the teacher's discretion. Computers are available for educational purposes at Eaton RESA Adult Education locations. If you encounter issues with a computer, please seek assistance from staff immediately.

9. Can I take classes if English is not my first language? 

If you need help with English, our staff can provide a referral to adult education English Language Learning programs in the area.

10. What kind of support do you offer outside of class? 

We offer various types of support, including tutoring sessions (in-person or virtual), career and training exploration, support for individualized education plans (IEPs) for eligible students, and assistance for English Language Learners. We can also offer support or referrals for needs such as food, child care, clothing, or hygiene products.

11. Do I need to live in Eaton, Clinton, or Ingham County to be in your program?

No, we have no student boundary lines. 

Tri-County Resources

Tri-County Community Health Guide - Resources

Additional Capital Area Adult Education Programs

Lansing School District Adult Education - GED, High School Diploma, English as a Second Language, Career Pathways and Workforce Innovation

Refugee Development Center - Open and inclusive place for refugees to learn and locate the resources they need to flourish as residents and citizens.

Global Institute of Lansing - Educational services to adult refugees and immigrants that enable them to earn a high school diploma.

LCC Foundations for Success GED Preparation and Adult Basic Education at Lansing Community College.

Eaton RESA Adult Education emerged from the impactful programming of Potterville Adult Education (PAE). PAE dedicated itself to providing GED preparation and support programs for many years, growing its reach beyond Potterville to touch lives across the region. To best continue serving regional learners, Potterville Public Schools transferred its programming to Eaton RESA in June 2024.