Through high school equivalency preparation and English-language instruction, Western Iowa Tech helps adult learners build essential skills, reach personal goals and create new possibilities for themselves and their families.
More than 14,000 people have earned a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) through WIT since 1966, and another 14,000 students have participated in its English Language Learner (ELL) program since 2000. During the 2024-25 program year alone, ELL enrollment in Sioux City and Denison reached 840 students.
Those numbers represent thousands of individual turning points. Adult learners come to WIT at different ages, with different experiences and goals. Some are completing an unfinished education, preparing for better employment, strengthening their English skills, or creating a pathway to college.
Programs that meet learners where they are
Western Iowa Tech’s HSED program provides standards-based classes that prepare adults to earn an alternative credential to a traditional high school diploma. The ELL program helps learners strengthen their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through lessons connected to employment, health, shopping and daily life. Both programs meet students at their current skill levels and help them work toward their individual goals.
A first step toward college
Erica Brady came to WIT after struggling with her mental health and leaving high school. She enrolled in the High School Equivalency Diploma program, completed her classes and tests, and then began taking college courses.
Today, Brady is working toward an associate degree in Networking Administration and Security. “I needed my diploma to start college, and I couldn’t have done that without that program,” Brady said.
The skills she developed continue to help her as a college student. “I still use my notes from writing class almost every time I write an essay,” she said.
Brady encourages others not to feel overwhelmed by the first step. “It might seem like a lot at first, but if you try and apply yourself, it is possible, and you can do it,” she said. Building a pathway through English When Ruth Torres came to the United States, she enrolled in WIT’s English Language Learner program. The program helped her strengthen her English skills, make connections and prepare for further education. After completing ELL classes, Torres continued her education at WIT taking classes to become a Nursing Assistant.
“The ELL program contributed to my career path by helping me develop English-language skills and build connections,” Torres said. She encourages other learners to take advantage of the same opportunity. “I advise others who are starting their education to participate in the ELL program because it will be very helpful for learning English.”
“Adult Education is about making sure people know they have not missed their chance,” said Laura Grell, WITCC Educational Coordinator. “When a student strengthens a skill, earns a diploma or becomes more confident using English, that progress reaches beyond the classroom. It affects the student’s family, workplace and entire community.”
It is never too late
Jennifer Cavin returned to school after carrying the regret of leaving high school shortly before graduation. Years later, she found WIT’s HSED program in Denison and decided to finish what she had started.
Earning the credential helped Cavin qualify for employment that required a high school diploma. It also brought a sense of personal accomplishment. “I told myself I could get a diploma even in my 40s,” Cavin said. “The teachers were amazing there and so willing to help.”
Cavin encourages others who are considering returning to school to take the next step. “If you are thinking about going back to school to achieve your diploma, just do it,” she said. “If I can take this program in my 40s and pass it and receive a diploma, you can too. Believe in yourself.”
Strengthening families and the workforce
Stories like Brady’s, Torres’s, and Cavin’s demonstrate why Adult Education cannot be measured only through enrollment figures. Its impact can be seen in the college student writing an essay, the employee qualifying for a better position, the parent reading with a child and the new community member gaining confidence in everyday conversations.
These programs also support families, employers and the regional economy. Stronger academic and English-language skills can help learners complete job applications, communicate with their children’s teachers, understand health information and prepare for additional education. High school equivalency and English-language programs also create pathways into college programs, workforce training and careers.
The need for Adult Education extends far beyond Siouxland. According to ProLiteracy’s U.S. Adult Skills Facts, 59 million American adults have literacy skills at or below Level 1, while 72 million have numeracy skills at or below the lowest measured level.
Western Iowa Tech’s local results demonstrate that progress is possible. During the 2024-25 program year, the College’s Adult Education program met its targets for enrollment, post-testing and measurable skill gains. Its overall measurable skill gain rate was 53.31%, exceeding the state goal of 48%.
Opening doors to what comes next
As Western Iowa Tech looks toward its next 60 years, Adult Education reflects the College’s continuing commitment to access and opportunity. Students may arrive with different experiences, challenges and goals, but the purpose remains constant: helping people gain the skills and confidence to move forward.
For thousands of learners across Siouxland, Adult Education has opened a door to new possibilities.
For more information contact Laura Grell, Director of Adult Education and Literacy, at 712-317-3256 or laura.grell@witcc.edu.