Adult Education & Literacy
The Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program is free to everyone. We have several class locations to serve you with both morning and evening classes. We offer high school equivalency preparation and English language classes which include basic computer training, literacy tutoring, and life-skills instruction.
High School Equivalency
Many people who did not finish high school have knowledge and skills comparable to people who did graduate. Most employers, colleges and universities, and the military accept an HSE (High School Equivalency) certificate as being equivalent to a high school diploma.
More on High School EquivalencyEnglish Language Classes
The English Language Acquisition classes provide students with a working knowledge of English in preparation for citizenship tests, the workplace, additional education, and daily living. Classes are conducted in a small classroom style to allow students the chance to receive individual attention from their instructor and tutors.
More on English Language ClassesCollege and Career Preparation
If you already have your high school diploma but want to score better on the ASVAB, college entrance exams, or job-related testing such as WorkKeys (NCRC), the AEL program can assess your knowledge and help you focus on those specific skills and learn the concepts needed to score higher on any academic test.
AEL for Businesses
We can help your business.
The East Central College Adult Education and Literacy Program provides essential workforce development services, focusing on bridging the gap caused by low literacy in a technology-driven workplace. This free resource offers a variety of programs such as High School Equivalency preparation, college readiness classes, English language acquisition, and job training opportunities. The program aims to enhance workforce skills, ensuring safety and efficiency while meeting global business standards.
AEL Orientation
Orientation dates
- Tuesday, July 15
10 a.m. & 6 p.m. - Monday, July 21
10 a.m. & 6 p.m.
Before you begin classes you must first complete an orientation along with Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) assessments. The assessments identify which skills you have mastered and what still needs to be learned to reach your goal. This will save you time in the classroom so that you do not have to study 100% of the skills needed, just those you have not mastered. Assessments will be scheduled by appointment and should be completed before beginning classes.
You can register for the orientation on one of the available dates at either 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. These sessions will meet via Zoom.us, which is available as an app on your phone or computer.
Learn Online with AEL
If you need a virtual and more flexible way to learn with Adult Education, MOLearns is a special online classroom just for adults in Missouri that lets you study from home.
About AEL
The AEL program is staffed with caring, patient, and knowledgeable individuals who enjoy helping students reach their short-term and long-range goals.
We provide an initial intake, administer the appropriate level Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) test, create an individualized learning plan, and administer the appropriate post-test (TABE/Official HiSET® Practice Test) to the learner. We offer group classes and one-on-one instruction in reading, math, and writing. These services are free.
Volunteer with AEL
The East Central College Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program invites individuals to volunteer as classroom assistants, offering a rewarding opportunity to contribute to adult education. Volunteers can assist in various areas, including high school equivalency preparation, basic literacy, English language acquisition, and citizenship preparation. The commitment involves a few hours per week, with required training and a background check to ensure effective support for students. Volunteers can choose their preferred tutoring type and location, with classes spread across multiple communities.