By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Chilton County residents who never finished high school and are now wanting to complete their GED have a new option in Clanton thanks to Jefferson State Community College.

On Dec. 5 at 9 a.m., the Chilton-Clanton Campus will host an orientation for its new GED program.
Dr. Tamara Payne, JSCC Director of Career and Learning Services said the program was designed for “individuals that want to pursue a GED, individuals that did not pass the high school graduation exam.”

“Individuals that did not receive all their credits to receive a high school diploma may also be able to attend under the Non-Traditional High School Diploma Option,” said. “Also, individuals that need remediation or tutoring for college classes or to retest for WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding.”

According to information JSCC released about the program, “Students that successfully earn the GED through Jefferson State are eligible to take one free college credit course.”
The orientation meeting will serve as a time to see where students are academically and what they need to work on.

“The GED program includes an orientation to measure where students are, so the instructor can develop an educational plan for them,” Payne said. “It also includes one-on-one instruction and incorporates technology. These services are offered free of charge.”

Michael Blair will be the instructor for the program.
The program will be year-round and accept students on a rotating basis.

“This is important to Jefferson State because it aligns with our mission to meet students where they are and provide not just academic instruction but supportive services to nurture and develop students as productive members of our community,” Payne said.

Materials for the classes are provided free of charge. However, there is a cost to take the GED tests. Financial assistance opportunities are available for students who qualify.