West Area Adult School provides adults alternative educational opportunities throughout the western region of Polk County (Lakeland, Kathleen, and Bartow). The main campus is located at 604 S. Central Avenue in Lakeland. Off-site classes are available at one of our 30+ convenient locations.

Students who need help with basic skills such as math or reading, can successfully complete the Adult Basic Education courses for entry into the GED® program. Services are also available for students seeking to learn English (for Speakers of Other Languages).

The GED®, or General Educational Development, is at the heart of the program. Established in 1942, the GED® is universally recognized as the equivalent of a traditional high school diploma. Polk County’s adult education program has awarded as many as 1,500 GED®s each year to graduating students. The GED® program is offered at a minimal charge to any qualifying adult (16 years or older).

Mission

Volunteers

Adult education began in America during World War II, when the federal government passed the G.I. Bill of Rights in 1944. Many servicemen and women had volunteered for war before they had even finished high school. In an effort to provide these veterans with the opportunity to gain their high school degree, adult education programs were established all across the country. The GED, or General Educational Development, is at the heart of the program. Established in 1942, the GED is universally recognized as the equivalent of a traditional high school diploma. Last year, Polk County’s adult education program awarded more than 1500 GEDs to graduating students. The GED program is offered at a minimal charge to any qualifying adult, 16 years or older. But thousands of other students attend West Area Adult School, as well. The Adult Basic Education program—ABE—is designed for those not ready for the GED program, who need help with basic skills such as math or reading. Successful completion of ABE allows entry into the GED program. ESOL, or English for Speakers of Other Languages, is also available. *Did You Know: West Area Adult School has been listed by the National Park Service of Washington D.C. in The National Register of Historical Places since 1999!

The mission of West Area Adult School is to provide relevant learning experiences that prepare adult students to be responsible, productive members of the workforce.

West Area Adult School’s students and teachers are very grateful for the many volunteer tutors who work one-on-one or in small groups with individuals needing extra help. Since 2003, West Area Adult School has earned 12 Golden School Awards, thanks to the many volunteers who unselfishly give of their time and talents, both on our main campus and our extension sites.

Volunteers pick the times, locations, and academic areas where they wish to make their contribution. Teachers provide the necessary teaching materials, so no preparation is required on the part of the tutor.

Anyone interested in lending a hand in either a basic academic class, or one of our English as a Second Language (ESOL) classes can contact the main office.