Why is this important?
Access to post-secondary education, job skills training, and basic
education is critical to support the rapidly changing local and
regional economy. Remedial education, basic skills development,
and General Education Diploma (GED) preparation are in demand and
serve as a critical first step toward self-sufficiency for many
adults.
With the growing number of older adult residents and retired professionals
moving to our county, we have an increasing demand for continuing
education programs and personal enrichment classes.
What is the measure?
The number of adults participating in formal educational activities
provides a gauge of adult education opportunities.
How are we doing?
The county is home to a comprehensive community college ( Columbia
College), adult ROP (Regional Occupational Program) programs, adult
high school program, and several vocational and literacy providers.
Numerous agencies provide short-term education and training courses
for the local workforce and businesses. Institutions of higher learning
are within reasonable commuting distance.
While distance learning via the Internet is a growing trend, it
is constrained by limited access to high-speed internet service
in most of Tuolumne County.
The adult population is growing much faster than the younger cohort.
College enrollment is increasing steadily.
English as a Second Language shows the greatest percentage increase
in enrollment.
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