Skip to main content
The GED program at Lincoln Trail College donated books to the Crawford County Jail to help inmates prepare to earn a GED.
“There’s a significant positive impact on the community when someone earns their high school equivalency,” says LTC Academic Success Center Director Rena Gower. “The donation of these books will help give inmates without a high school diploma a chance to start preparing to earn a GED.”
Gower says people without a high school diploma are more than twice as likely to be unemployed, working in low-wage jobs, living in poverty, and relying on government aid programs as those with higher levels of education. She says the GED graduates earn an average of $9000 more a year than those without a high school diploma.
“When people earn a GED, there are many impacts to the community,” says Gower. “They’re less likely to be on government support, which saves states and the federal government money. It also helps their children because the mother’s reading skill level is the greatest determinant of her children’s future academic success. It can also mean higher salaries, better job opportunities, and more economic mobility for people. That translates to increased tax revenues, business productivity, and a decrease in public assistance.”
Meanwhile, Lincoln Trail College is getting ready to offer free GED classes this fall to anyone that does not have a high school diploma. Classes are available Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. The classes help students prepare for the GED exam and cover reading and language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.
LTC is also offering a new Bridge Manufacturing class with the GED program. In addition, to help students prepare for the GED, students will also learn manufacturing and workplace skills and learn about different programs available at LTC. The class is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon and is also free.
Fall semester classes at Lincoln Trail College begin August 20 and will be offered face-to-face this fall. Gower says students interested in learning more about the GED program can call her at 618-546-2306 to set up an advising and registration appointment.
