Our Services

Get Ahead with Central Vermont Adult Ed!

Free Classes in Washington, Orange, and Lamoille Counties.

Further your Education

Central Vermont Adult Education is here for you.  
Get ahead in your family, community, career, and further education. We will help you to reach your goals.

PROGRAMS OFFERED

Literacy, from beginner through high school levels — Increasing your literacy skills is a great way to get ahead in anything you do!

  • Reading — Read to children in your house. Read newspapers, magazines, and online articles. Read for work. Read for college.

  • Writing — Write emails. Write to teachers. Write your life story.

  • Math — Balance your check book. Math in the workplace. Help children with homework.

  • Computers — Learn to use a computer. Use apps and programs to make your life easier. Get your Northstar Digital Literacy Certification.

Literacy Classes

High school credentials — You need a credential to get ahead in careers and further education.  Adults in Central Vermont can do this in 2 ways.

  • GED — A test with 4 parts (Math, Science, Social Studies, and English/Language Arts). CVAE can help you prepare for the test. When you pass you receive a GED certificate that most employers and many colleges recognize.
    Click here for more information on the GED and how to schedule your exams.

  • High School Completion Program (HSCP) — Earn a diploma from a Vermont high school but work with CVAE. Flexibility in what you learn. Access to paid college classes and job training as part of high school.

  • Click here for more info on the differences between GED and HSCP.

High School Credentials

 Job readiness — How do you get ahead in your job or career?

  • Certifications — CVAE is your first stop for certifications in health, technology, customer service skills, and more. Many are free to you.

    This equal opportunity program is paid for in part (55%) by a $1,000,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration. $825,000 (45%) of the project is paid for by non-governmental sources. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

  • Resume and cover letter writing.

  • Preparation for professional exams (Praxis, ParaPro, etc.)

Job Readiness

English Language Learning — We are here to help our non-English speakers get ahead, with the skills they need.

  • Speaking skills — Conversational English for daily life and jobs.

  • Reading and writing skills — Personal and work emails, read health information, fill in forms.

  • Citizenship skills and preparation — CVAE will help you be a part of your new community, and help you study for the U.S Citizenship exam.

English Language Learning

Our programs are designed to help you meet your goals and GET AHEAD!

Before I went to CVAE to study for the GED I really didn’t know how to learn. There I was taught reading skills, and other tricks to help me retain information. I couldn’t have become a personal trainer without all those things I learned at CVABE.

– Former student

Frequently Asked Questions


Who can join our adult education programs at CVAE?

Any Vermont resident over age 16 who is not enrolled in high school, lacks skills equivalent to a high school graduate, or is an English Language Learner. If you want to get ahead by joining our programs, contact us to learn more. Our service area is Washington, Orange, and Lamoille counties.

Where do I go to get ahead with CVAE?

Our learning centers are in Barre, Montpelier, Waterbury, Bradford, Randolph, and Morrisville. Some students do online classes with us or meet at libraries and workplaces. Your teacher will help you find what’s best for you. 

How much will it cost me?

All our programs are free, even some job certifications. GED tests are $36 per section, and we can help pay. We can even help some students purchase a computer or pay for internet. Ask your teacher how we can help.

Are the classes big?

Most learning at CVAE is 1-on-1. We focus on you and your goals, on your schedule. There may be opportunities for small groups, and you can choose that if you’d like. How you learn is up to you.

How long will I be in school with CVAE?

This is different for everyone. You can be in school with us for as long as it takes you to reach your goals.

Can I miss classes?

Please try your best to attend your lessons. You may have to miss classes because of work, illness, car problems, or you need a break for a week. Please try to contact your teacher if you are unable to be in class.

I hate tests. Why do I have to take assessments at CVAE?

We know that assessments aren’t your favorite thing, but they are important. They help us to know where to get started and progress assessments give us an idea of how much you have grown. Your teacher can help you find ways to make them less stressful for you.

How should I behave at CVAE?

Please be respectful of others and their property. Use quiet, inside voices, and try not to swear. It makes for a better learning environment.

Does CVAE have an electronic equipment policy?

Yes. CVAE electronic equipment (computers, laptops, iPads, etc.) is for educational use only. It may not be used for other purposes, illegal activities, bullying, or harassment.

What are the rules regarding alcohol, drugs, and tobacco products?

CVAE is a tobacco-free, drug-free and alcohol-free environment. This includes vapes and chewing tobacco. When smoking outside please be respectful of our neighbors. Please do not bring non-prescription drugs to CVAE. Please don’t use alcohol or un-prescribed drugs before coming to CVAE.

What are the rules about weapons at CVAE?

No weapons are allowed at CVAE learning centers or at our learning activities. This includes guns (loaded or unloaded), knives, explosives, poisons, mace, and anything else dangerous or harmful.

What if I break the rules?

In most cases you will be asked to change behaviors. If you don’t you may be asked to come back when you are ready to follow the rules. In some cases, we may require that you leave the premises immediately and end our services with you. Police intervention may be required for illegal activity.  A safe environment helps everyone get ahead.