Adult Education and Literacy

1. How to Get Started
2. Class Locations
3. Services
4. General Eligibility

This site provides information on how to access adult education and literacy services for the Hidalgo, Willacy and Starr County areas.

How to Get Started

• Submit a Referral for FREE ABE, ESL and GED classes with Region One.
• Register for ESL classes with South Texas College

Once you have completed your on-line contact form a representative from Region One Adult Education & Literacy will be contacting you.

Providers

• Adult Education & Literacy Directory
• South Texas College
  • Pecan Campus
  • Mid-Valley Campus
  • Starr County Campus

Services

Adult education and literacy providers typically offer a wide variety of adult education courses.  Most of these courses are components of four major service categories:

• Adult Basic Education- This is academic preparation and offers adults instruction in basic skills, such as reading, writing, arithmetic, and other skills required to function in society.
• GED Preparation- This is academic preparation toward readiness for the high school equivalency examination. GED preparation can be delivered in a traditional classroom, via distance learning or through a combination of both, known as hybrid education.
• English as a Second Language (ESL) and English Literacy and Civics (EL Civics)- ESL courses teach English literacy to individuals with languages other than English as their primary language. These courses are often paired with Civics courses which inform individuals on United States history, culture, and practice in preparation for citizenship. Some ESL courses offer workplace (vocational) language training that places their new English skills in the context of their work environment.
• Combined GED & Workforce Skills Training- Traditional GED preparation with concurrent skills training offered to also prepare the learner with occupational skills toward improved employment opportunities. This can occur in a number of different ways and can be brief (weeks) or take more time (months). Longer programs will generally lead to more marketable skills and may result in industry-recognized certifications.

General Eligibility

Generally each AEL provider may have some criteria associated with their programs; however, these are some common elements to help get you started:

1. Customers must be 16 years of age or older, considered out-of-school and not enrolled or required to be enrolled in secondary school under state law.
2. lack sufficient basic educational skills; or
3. not have a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent; or
4. be unable to speak, read, or write the English language.

Currently adult education providers conduct intake, make eligibility determinations, and enter data on participation in adult education and literacy service.

Adult Education and Literacy programs funded under the Texas Workforce Commission do not charge fees for services provided. Please check with AEL providers to inquire if fees may apply.