Optional Education & Youth GED | Black Hawk College

Optional Education (High School Credit)
Optional Education is a collaborative effort by the six Rock Island County public secondary school systems, Black Hawk College, the Regional Superintendent of Schools, and the Youth Service Bureau to provide educational alternatives for truant and dropout youth. Students may earn high school credits leading to a diploma or prepare for GED testing. Additional support services are available.

Youth GED (General Equivalency Diploma)
Designed to meet the needs of the younger (16-18 year old) GED student, Optional Education GED classes help students with few high school credits prepare for the GED exam which, in turn, will qualify them for employment or postsecondary education.

Commonly asked questions about the Optional Education Program »

How do students earn credit?

Cooperating schools require students to attend a class for a specified number of hours per .5 credit. While in attendance, students must complete the required assigned work at a passing level. Each class completed is worth one-half credit. Credit cannot be earned unless both attendance and work requirements are met.

Is Optional Education a faster way to earn credit?

Students have the potential to earn credit more quickly in their home schools. Students who complete a full schedule of classes at the home school have the potential to earn 7 credits per year. Optional Education has a shorter day (4 or 5 hours), so students can only expect to complete 4 to 5 credits during an academic year. Some students earn less due to poor attendance or productivity

If I decide to enroll in the GED program, what classes will I take?

GED students prepare to demonstrate that they have the same skills as the average high school graduate in five fields: Literature and the Arts, Writing Skills, Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics. Students are tested when they enroll to help determine what areas need attention. Instructors then work with students to design a program that meets individual needs.

If I decide to enroll in the GED program, will I be able to go to college?

GED graduates are eligible to enroll in college classes. While GED graduates with high GED and college entrance scores may go directly to a four-year institution, many begin college at a community college like Black Hawk College. A college-bound GED student should strive to earn scores that are higher than the minimum passing score. The student should also consider enrolling in keyboarding and introductory computer classes. Typing and computer skills will make the transition to college much easier.

How do I register for classes?

You may register for Optional Education classes at the Outreach Center, Room 107, Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Classes are held at the Adult Learning Center in Rock Island and Outreach Center. Rock Island residents may register at the Adult Learning Center. Call 309-755-3300 for additional information. See Fall Schedules, Spring Schedules, and Summer Schedules for enrollment dates. Summer classes are offered as student enrollment indicates need.

Early School Leaver Transition Program
This program serves 16 to 21-year-old Optional Education high school credit or GED students who are interested in exploring employment and postsecondary educational options. Career services offered include: self-assessment and career exploration; resume, cover letter, and interview preparation; job search techniques; training in employer expectations; job placement assistance; and guidance with transition to college. For more information call 309-796-8252.

Training for Employment and Academic Mastery (T.E.A.M.) Program
The Training for Employment and Academic Mastery (T.E.A.M.) program is a Workforce Investment Act initiative designed to help qualified youth complete their basic education and successfully transition to work or postsecondary training. In addition to academic training, the program specializes in resume building, career exploration, workforce preparation, occupational and softskill training, and individualized counseling to address character development. T.E.A.M. is available at all Adult Education facilities managed by Black Hawk College in Rock Island County. For more information, call 796-8242.