The Dean of Adult Education, Scott Schneider, says some students enroll in the program just for personal satisfaction while others want to qualify for better jobs.
"It contributes to the employment numbers within our communities, it contributes to business and industry success, it contributes to the opportunities for new businesses who are moving into the area to recruit and retain highly qualified individuals for their business needs."
Students are first given an assessment test, then take the appropriate courses so they can pass national tests in reading and language arts, writing, math, science, and social studies.
Schneider says some are ready to take the national tests right away, while others may have to attend classes for several years.
"It really depends on the individual, it depends on their previous academic accomplishments, it depends upon their engagement in the program itself, and how often they're able to attend classes, and it depends on their self motivation."
The grant-funded program is free, and the only cost is for the national tests, but money is available to pay for them too.
The ceremony for the new high school graduates was held online and available from the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Facebook page.
