The Indiana Department of Workforce Development notified 21 adult education programs across the state of their designation as a Program of Excellence. DWD started this designation in 2022-23 to recognize adult education programs that meet multiple state and federal metrics around student academic achievement, enrollment, partnering with employers, offering high-demand wage training and high school equivalencies earned.
CARA has earned this designation for the second year in a row. Crawfordsville experiences the positive impact of adult education success through increased economic activity and workforce participation of students who are upskilled through career training and foundational education credential. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the average yearly wage increase of earning a high school credential at $8,400. The high school credential also provides access to postsecondary education or training, which further increases Hoosier employment and economic opportunities.
DWD Commissioner, Richard Paulk, recognizes the critical work a local c;idult education program contributes to the state, “Indiana continues to excel as a state, leading the nation in student outcomes for the past six years, due to the hard work, dedication, and innovative practices being implemented at the program level in communities every day.”
All programs will be recognized by DWD Adult Education leadership at the Indiana Association and of Adult and Continuing Education award ceremony on Thursday.
“Education is more than just acquiring knowledge; it’s a pathway to a brighter future,” said CARA’s director Kathy Tobias. “It’s a win-win for everyone involved, from the individual learners to the broader community. When adults have the opportunity to learn new skills and expand their knowledge, it creates a ripple effect that benefits families, businesses and the entire community.”’
Indiana Adult Education enrolled more than 25,000 adult students across the state in the most recent program year and is a national leader in student achievement, high school equivalency diplomas earned, career certifications, and employer-based education.
For more information on Indiana Adult Education, visit DWD: AmplifyAE (in.gov).
