CCC’s Adult Education Program Is the Largest in Nebraska

August 22, 2018

Central Community College is reaping the rewards of having the largest adult education program among all six Nebraska community colleges during 2017-18.

According to the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE), CCC served 1,785 adult education students in its 25-county service area from July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018.

As a result, the NDE increased its funding for the current fiscal year by 36 percent.

“It has been amazing to see how the adult education program has grown and how it continually meets performance measures,” said Ann Chambers, adult education director, who has been with the program for more than 30 years. “Much of the credit for the program’s success goes to the quality staff, most of whom are part-time. I am most appreciative to the 50 or so instructors, aides, administrative assistants and coordinators, and volunteer tutors.”

Of the 1785 adult education students at CCC, 69.5 percent studied English as a Second Language (ESL) courses; 24.5 percent were in adult basic education courses, which is for those with skills from kindergarten through eighth grade; and 6 percent were in GED-level classes (grades 9-12).

A large number of international students are enrolled in CCC adult education courses with 51 countries represented and 35 languages spoken.

CCC adult education collaborates with multiple organizations, including the Hall County Detention Center and Cargill Meat Solutions in Schuyler.

“We are pleased to be able to help both our adult students and our area businesses succeed in increasing necessary communication skills for the betterment of this and future generations,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall. “Better communication skills not only help those businesses that employ the students but also the entire community that interacts with individuals at retail stores, schools, medical centers and community events.”

CCC began offering adult education courses in 1976.