The GED Preparation Program
 
What is the GED?
The tests of General Educational Development were developed in 1942 to give students who have not graduated from high school the opportunity to earn a General Equivalency Diploma, which is considered academically equivalent to a high school  diploma. Students must demonstrate their competency by taking five sub-tests in the areas of Writing, Social Studies, Science, Math and Reading. The General Equivalency Diploma is recognized nationwide as a key to employment opportunities, further education and financial rewards. A recent survey showed that 92% of colleges and 96% of employers accept GED graduates.
 

GED Facts:

  • Those who obtain scores high enough to earn a GED credential outperform at least one-third of today’s high school seniors.
  • GED graduates include: comedians Chris Rock and William (Bill) Cosby PhD.Ed, Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas, Delaware Governor Ruth Ann Minner, Colorado U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, jazz musician Najee Rasheed, actor Michael J. Fox.
  • The vast majority of employers consider GED grads the same as traditional high school grads in regards to hiring, salary, and advancement opportunities.

Why should I enroll at the EOYDC?
The GED Program at the East Oakland Youth Development Center is a unique resource for the Oakland community. Our goal is not simply to help students pass the General Education Development test, but to expose them to a world of education and personal growth. In the GED Program, students are provided with positive role models and teachers who care about their futures. By learning that a GED is not merely a ticket to a paying job, students in this class are able to broaden their perspectives and set their goals at a higher standard. They begin to see that higher education is not only within their reach, but also that the personal strength one gains from such an education is worth more than any certificate.

The EOYDC staff allows GED students to set their own pace. Once the student feels confident in the subject matter, then and only then, instruction will move forward.

Students have the option of attending either the morning or afternoon class session. By attending class regularly and taking advantage of tutorial help, students are generally able to graduate within 3 to 6 months. Class work and homework are given on a daily basis. We have graduation ceremonies to honor those who pass the official GED tests.

The EOYDC GED Program also offers the following advantages:

Comfortable Classroom
It is important that students feel safe and comfortable in their learning environment. At EOYDC we assure that all students are provided with a healthy and comfortable atmosphere so that everyone has the ability to receive an education.

Non-Competition
All students are here to learn therefore everyone is given a chance to do that at their own pace. No one will be made to feel less than anyone else because we all have a right to an education, no matter who we are or where we come from.

Critical Thinking
Students learn to analyze why things are done in a certain way and decide for themselves the value of that method, what could be done differently, and how things could be improved. GED students often hold class discussions on varying topics, and this activity is particularly helpful in not only exposing them to alternative viewpoints, but also in shaping their individual opinions about world issues.

Respect
Students are reminded on a regular basis that the classroom is a place where everyone needs to feel safe. This means that students do not put others down, or make another feel bad about something he/she does in class. In addition to respecting their peers, students respect the classroom. The resources and materials in the classroom are to be handled with care and consideration because, without them, we would not be able to further our education.
 
Other advantages of the EOYDC GED Prep:
  • Field Trips designed to enhance the educational and personal experience.
  • College representatives / guest speakers that provide insights to both the real and academic world.
  • Various academic activities to aid in what may be necessary in regard to future endeavors. (i.e. college, employment)
  • Provide transportation to the test site and assistance with required fees. We ask that each student contribute half of the cost of the test as a deposit. EOYDC will pay the entire fee of the GED exam if the student is able to complete all 5 tests within 3 months. At that time, the deposit will be reimbursed.
 
While our main focus is to encourage the youth and young adults to participate in our General Education Development Preparation program, we also offer brush up classes in Math and English for working adults who need skill improvement to advance in their current job.
 
 
 

Class Schedule Monday-Friday
 
Morning Session: 9:30 am to 12:00 pm.       Afternoon Session: 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Daily assignments and weekly quizzes are given during both sessions.  Students also receive one on one tutoring.
Our program is designed to give all of our participants the opportunity to prepare for and pass the 5 sub-tests in the areas of:

  • Writing Skills

  • Social Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Reading

Most students are able to graduate within 6 months of enrolling!

Partnered Organizations Letters Of  Support

  In Their Own Words

They Beat The Odds
 

Click here to download a program brochure