Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) provides free virtual and face-to-face classroom instruction to eligible Missouri citizens in Reading, Language, Mathematics, English Language Competency, Workplace Literacy, Digital Literacy, Civics, and Citizenship. Certified instructors teach all classes. Adult students receive preparation for Missouri’s High School Equivalency exam (HiSET®) integrated with career specific workforce training. English learners become literate in the English language while learning the responsibilities of citizenship and workforce preparation.
AEL programs around the state offer services, free of charge, to anyone who is at least 17 years of age or 16-year-olds who have met Missouri’s compulsory school attendance requirements. To be eligible for AEL services, individuals must also have one of the following barriers: basic skills deficiency/low literacy levels based on assessment, lack of high school diploma or equivalency, or learning the English language.
Funding for AEL programs is determined through a competitive grant process. Local education agencies, non-profit organizations, institutions of higher education, and other eligible groups may apply.
In 2021, Tayten Jordon attended AEL classes at our Neosho class site and successfully obtained his high school equivalency. He was awarded a scholarship in addition to other financial aid for college based on his impressive HiSET score.
Currently, Tayten is pursuing a Criminal Justice degree and plans to transfer from Crowder College to another university to earn his bachelor's degree in the same field. Alongside his studies, he is also working as a jailor for the Jasper County Sheriff's Office. Tayten's ultimate goal is to continue his education while working for the Missouri Highway Patrol and eventually joining the U.S. Marshal service!