Navigating Adult Education Programs in Fairfax County
Opportunities exist for adults of all ages in Fairfax County to pursue education and personal growth. Whether you're seeking to complete your high school education, learn English, enhance your career prospects, or simply explore new interests, a variety of programs are available to suit your needs. Take the first step toward furthering your education by finding the program that’s right for you. In addition to the information below, you may also be interested in the library's Online Resources for Education.
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Adult Education
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) offers a wide variety of day and evening courses for career, personal and academic growth. These courses include GED and adult high school completion, and English language learning. FCPS offers classes locally or online and are open to adults of any age.
Success Stories from FCPS Adult Education
The impact of these programs is evident in the success stories of its participants:
- Ana, Fairfax GED: “This program is giving me a chance to finish high school. It will give me an opportunity to continue my studies and become a Dialysis Technician, which has been my lifelong dream. Also, it gives me the confidence to help my kids with their homework.”
- Maria, Fairfax ESOL: “I can now budget my money on my own instead of asking a friend. I can help my family with their bills and bank accounts and how to stay out of debt and understand paystubs. Now I am better able to help my children with their homework and can communicate better with their teachers. I can be more involved in their school as a result of my newfound confidence.”
- One student noted, “Ms. Mary is the best teacher. She goes above and beyond. She is the best teacher in Fairfax County Adult High School. She is helpful and respectful. She never says I’m busy come back but cares for her students.”
Northern Virginia Regional Adult Education Program
The Northern Virginia Regional Adult Education Program is one of 22 regional adult education programs in the state of Virginia, under the umbrella of the Virginia Department of Education. This program offers a wide range of programs across the region in Adult Basic and Secondary Education, GED Testing and Preparation classes, English Language classes, Certification Training Courses and Family Literacy support. They serve residents in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties and the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas and Manassas Park through their local school divisions.
College-Level Learning Opportunities
Several institutions in and around Fairfax County offer college-level learning opportunities for adults:
Read also: Education in Fairfax County
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)
NOVA offers a variety of non-credit courses and certificate programs online and in person. This provides a flexible way to gain new skills or explore different academic areas.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI)
These institutes cater specifically to adults in their retirement years, offering a range of courses and lectures:
- LLI/NOVA: Sponsored by Northern Virginia Community College, offers noncredit courses to older adults.
- The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University: Offers courses and lectures to older adults in the Washington, DC area.
- The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University: Offers courses for people in their retirement years. Classes take place in Fairfax, Reston and Sterling, Virginia.
Additional Resources
- MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses): These are free, online, college-level courses from universities and other providers worldwide. This is a great option for self-directed learners who want to explore a variety of subjects.
- College-level, noncredit courses, lectures, special events and activities for people over 50. Classes take place in Arlington, Virginia.
Read also: Transformation of Fairfax University
Read also: Explore Laurel Ridge
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