Adult Education

The Eaton RESA Adult Education program is dedicated to increasing work skills, literacy levels, and high school equivalency credentials (GED/HiSET) for adults in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties at no cost to the learner.

Our adult students often come to us with a complicated history with attending school, while also juggling complex lives, balancing children, jobs, and countless other responsibilities. We genuinely care about our students, and we're here to be a positive and supportive resource for those ready to take a vital step forward in life for themselves—achieving their high school equivalency credential (GED/HiSET). We also know that success often requires more than just classroom instruction. That's why we aim to help our adult students overcome obstacles by providing wrap-around services, such as referrals for housing, mental health support, preschool enrollment for their children, and substance use support resources. We can offer help with transportation costs and are thrilled to now provide a limited number of free childcare slots during class at our Lansing and Holt locations. We also provide support with planning for career, job training, or college beyond our program. Being a part of our adult students' life-changing success stories is truly an honor for us.

We offer a wide range of in-person and virtual classes in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings to fit diverse schedules. 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 office is at Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) Lansing: 2110 S. Cedar Street, Lansing, MI 48910.

Steps to register for Adult Education

STEP 1: APPLY NOW

STEP 2: SCHEDULING - after applying, check your email regularly - you will receive an email containing enrollment directions and detailed instructions with two links: 1) to schedule your Enrollment Day and 2) to complete your ALP (Adult Learning Plan)/registration form.

STEP 3: ENROLLMENT DAY - Arrive promptly at your scheduled time and plan to stay up to 5 hours to complete the below activities.

At enrollment, you will:

Bring a valid Michigan picture identification
Complete enrollment documents
Attend a program orientation
Take TABE (Test for Adult Basic Education) assessment - will take approximately four hours. These assessments will help our teachers plan your HSE (High School Equivalency) coursework.
Select your preferred class schedule

STEP 4: START CLASSES - and ROCK IT OUT!

Other information -

Classes are offered in-person and virtually classes in Eaton, Clinton and Ingham counties mornings, afternoons and evenings.
Classes are usually two to three days per week in three-hour blocks (for example - Monday/Wednesday 1 PM - 4 PM).
Students should plan to spend at least 10 hours per week on your education to be successful. This includes class time and independent study outside of class.
Students who need support with transportation costs (EATRAN, Clinton Transit, CATA, or gas cards) for in-person classes, can request help by contacting our staff.
Internet access and a device to work on (smartphone, laptop, tablet, etc.) are required for the remote learning modules in all virtual classes.
The HSE comprised test areas: Reading, Language, Math, Science and Social Studies. Students can take each area one at a time if they choose. Official HSE testing is taken at several sites in the Lansing area with no cost to our students.

If you're ready, APPLY NOW!

Stay Connected

Want to stay up-to-date with Eaton RESA Adult Education? Subscribe to our newsletter by emailing Jennifer Hicks (see Contact information on the right).

What does Eaton RESA Adult Education offer?

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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.

Our Roots

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.