WEB EXTRA New GED program benefits employers and employees

On April 25, two sisters who dropped out of high school a few years ago took a test. A few days later, on their birthday, they were told the exciting news. They passed this test and had their GED to show for it.

The twin sisters, Dessilynn and Dacee Brown, ran into life’s roadblocks during their senior year of high school and have been trying to finish their high school education ever since. But new hurdles kept popping up, making such a feat even more challenging for the sisters.

It was only through a trial-based, online, distance learning program offered at the Salish Kootenai College Adult Learning Center, that the sisters were able to achieve this almost unachievable feat. And, without the full tuition coverage from their employer of more than three years, Mission Mountain Enterprises, the feat would have remained that much more elusive to them.

The online-program is built off a Missourian software, which enables students to earn their GEDs online. The state of Montana did a trial run of the program last year, but no funds were allocated for the program this year.

“We have to find some way to pay for it,” director of the SKC adult learning center Stephen McCoy said. “There is a real need for this in our community.”

McCoy said the adult learning center is one of only eight such sites within the state attempting to use this private software. Without the financial support of MME, the Browns would not have had the opportunity to harness the program.

The SKC ALC currently graduates between 70-80 people each year, but McCoy said the number has increased with the economic downturn, as more people are out of work and looking for ways to gain employment. Many people wishing to obtain their GEDs often run into issues with childcare, transportation and work scheduling, but the online-system eliminates many of those obstacles.

“All you need is a browser,” McCoy said, adding that students must find time to come in for tests.

Brody Moll, MME CEO, said the program serves as a way to build and hone the strengths and abilities of current employees.

“Some of these people that get their GEDs may turn into managers in the future,” he said, adding that after achieving her GED Dessilynn received a promotion. “She is very motivated, and just got side-tracked along the way.”

Along with the GED program, an additional set of basic skills instruction is offered to the MME employees.

“The programs help address deficiencies that vary from one person to the next,” Moll said. “It allows us to help people that work for us.”

Dacee said the program fit with her schedule.

“It was awesome,” she said. “I could do it with my son around. Daycare would have made it quite difficult.”

Jacquie Queen, the distance learning instructor for the SKC ALC, said the Browns benefited from the initial practice test they took, and were “very well suited for the program.” She said she has worked with other employees at MME and has noticed significant improvements in their  literacy and math abilities.

“This is good for us,” Moll said. “It’s good for them. It’s good for society.”

Dessilynn said that having her employer’s support gave her an extra-incentive to finish her GED, and both sisters said they are relieved by their accomplishments and thankful to their employer, SKC and the on-line program.

The Browns have a new sense of confidence now, and plan on going to college. Mission Mountain Enterprises is considering another memorandum with the learning center, after witnessing their staff’s current success and increase in skill level.

For more information on the web-based program mentioned in this story call the SKC Adult Learning Center at 275-4986.