Grant supports community college adult ed, workforce students

South Louisiana Community College announced it has received $75,000 in Rapid Response funding to support the Adult Education Credentials of Value Initiative.

This grant aims to cover tuition and fees for Adult Education students who concurrently enroll in adult basic education and economic and workforce development short-term training courses and programs. This initiative is designed to fast-track career opportunities for students in high-demand fields such as welding, electrician, plumbing, precision machining, commercial driver’s license, heating-ventilation-air conditioning, and maritime structural fitting.

Traditionally, students have had to wait until they achieved their HiSET or high school equivalency status before enrolling in college programs. However, the Adult Education Credentials of Value Initiative aims to break this barrier by encouraging students to enroll in college programs along with their adult education classes.

This approach accelerates career readiness and provides immediate access to skill-building courses that can lead to job opportunities.

SoLAcc is calling on all individuals who have not yet obtained their high school equivalency to seize this opportunity. By enrolling in adult education classes, students will be referred to the Rapid Response - Adult Education Credentials of Value Initiative, enabling them to benefit from fully covered tuition and fees for eligible training programs.

“We are thrilled to offer this funding to our Adult Education students,” said Niccola Ledet McNair, director of adult education for SoLAcc. “This initiative not only helps individuals gain essential skills and credentials in high-demand industries but also supports their journey toward achieving high school equivalency. It’s a win-win situation for our students and the community.”

Program details and benefits:
-- Tuition and Fees Covered: The $75,000 Rapid Response funding will cover the cost of tuition and fees for eligible Adult Education students.
--Concurrent Enrollment: Students can enroll in Adult Education and college programs simultaneously, eliminating the need to wait until achieving HiSET or high school equivalency.
--High-Demand Fields: Training programs available include welding, electrician, plumbing, precision machining, commercial driver’s license, heating-ventilation-air conditioning, and maritime structural fitting.

Enrollment information:

Prospective students are encouraged to attend the Adult Education Open Registration 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 10-11 at the Devalcourt Auditorium on the Lafayette Campus (320 Devalcourt St.). For more info, contact 337-521-9056 or visit the Adult Education page.