March 11, 2009 – Wakefield, RI – The Education Exchange, a non-profit provider of affordable, convenient, and accessible adult education and job skills training programs throughout southern Rhode Island, is now registering students for its Spring Session, which begins on March 30, 2009. A variety of programs, including basic education, high school equivalency, ESL, and computer classes will be held in Wakefield, Westerly, and North Kingstown.
In a high unemployment environment, workers without a high school diploma face significant job insecurity. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2008 national unemployment rate for those without a high school diploma was 9%, compared to 2.8% for those with a Bachelor’s Degree. For those able to find work without a high school diploma, the 2008 median weekly salary was less than half of that earned by workers with Bachelor’s Degrees ($426/week vs. $978/week).
All students at the Education Exchange understand the importance of education to their success, at home and on the job, but each student brings unique skills, experiences, and needs to the program. Therefore, the Education Exchange offers a variety of ways for students to obtain their high school equivalency, including:
Traditional GED Preparation: 10 weeks of comprehensive training in reading, writing, math, and test-taking skills
GED Fast Track: short-term, intensive training in reading, writing, math, and test-taking skills to supplement demonstrated high school level capabilities
External Diploma Program: an alternate path to a high school diploma that allows students to demonstrate high school level skills in work and daily life settings
These options ensure that all students at the Education Exchange have access to a learning environment that fits their needs and abilities, thereby increasing the likelihood that they will achieve their educational goals and find and keep a job, even in difficult times.
In addition to a high school diploma, today’s employers require that all workers, from customer service reps to seasoned executives, demonstrate computer literacy. To meet an ever-increasing need for computer training, classes at the Education Exchange include: Computer Basics & Beyond Basics; Microsoft Word, Excel, & PowerPoint; QuickBooks; and Photoshop.
With classes ranging from ESL and GED preparation to workforce development and computer skills, the Education Exchange provides southern Rhode Islanders with a solid foundation to seek employment and advance their careers. For some unemployed workers, funding for classes at the Education Exchange may be available through the RI Department of Labor and Training. To learn more, call netWORKri at 1-888-616-JOBS.
To register for the Education Exchange Spring Session, call 401-783-0293, send email to info@educationexchangeri.org, or visit www.educationexchangeri.org.
About The Education Exchange
For thirty years, the Education Exchange has enriched the lives of southern Rhode Islanders by providing affordable, convenient, and accessible adult education opportunities. Classes, seminars, and workforce training opportunities available at the Education Exchange help students improve their lives and achieve their professional goals. More information is available online at www.educationexchangeri.org or by calling 401-783-0293.
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