Returning to an in-person event this year, 29 students participated in the recognition ceremony for receiving their High School Equivalency, out of 65 students total who passed the HSE exam this year.

There were 12 English as a Second Language students honored, including one student recognized for becoming a new U.S. Citizen. Two students were recognized for becoming a Certified Logistics Associate and six students were recognized for becoming a Certified Logistics Technician.

Mackenzie Tomzi, the HSE student speaker, talked about how much of a struggle it was prior to coming to SCC, not having the support she needed and losing her mom at a young age. “Now, instead of being known as a troublemaker, I am known as a hard worker,” Tomzi said. “I would not be where I am today without these people.”

English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, offered at no cost, help non-native speakers improve English skills in reading, writing, speaking and understanding (listening), with a special focus on conversational skills for home and workplace literacy. SCC also offers specialty classes in TOEFL, citizenship, pronunciation and writing. Students from beginner to advanced levels will find classes to help them improve their English skills.

High School Equivalency (HSE) classes, also offered at no cost, teach basic reading, math and writing skills to prepare people to take the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET®) or to improve basic academic skills for college readiness or career advancement.

The Adult Education and Literacy program at St. Charles Community College serves over 700 students each year. For thelast two years, St. Charles Community College’s Adult Education & Literacy (AEL) program has had the highest percentage of measurable skill gains for students in Missouri, despite many challenges brought on by the pandemic.

For more information about the AEL program at SCC, call 636-922-8411 or visit www.stchas.edu/ael.