For local resident Jordis Jaynes, 16, the Adult Education program at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) was a way to begin her career early.
Jaynes always knew she wanted to go into cosmetology but was not eager to finish high school before entering the cosmetology program. After learning a GED provided her the same opportunities as a high school diploma, she embarked on her GED journey.
Jaynes completed her GED in June and started UACCB’s cosmetology program in August. Once she completes the eleven-month program and passes the licensure examination by the Arkansas Department of Health Cosmetology Section, Jaynes will be employable as a licensed cosmetologist.
“I would like to set up shop either in Batesville or Searcy,” Jaynes said. “My specialty is waxing and eyelashes.”
Along with Adult Education classes, Jaynes enrolled in the WAGE Level I Certificate training program. WAGE is a job readiness program with the Division of Workforce Services, Adult Education Section for unemployed and underemployed adults. The Adult Education program at UACCB offers WAGE courses in conjunction with basic skills classes with morning, afternoon, and evening options. WAGE can also be taken online.
“I learned computer and financial skills through WAGE that are really helpful,” Jaynes said.
Jaynes participated in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program. WIOA is a federal grant program that is under the White River Planning and Development District and is at no cost to the qualifying individual. WIOA is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and supportive services to help them to achieve their goals.
Jaynes said the program assisted her with paying for required cosmetology textbooks and paid her for passing her GED prep exams.
When asked what she would say to those considering Adult Education classes, she said, “Do it. The program is quick, and the instructors are good at teaching to different learning speeds.”
The UACCB Adult Education program serves students in Independence and Sharp counties. For more information, call 870-612-2164 or visit www.uaccb.edu.
For more information about North Central WIOA call (870) 793-5233 or to see if you qualify, apply online at ncaworks.com.
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This ad paid for with funds from the Division of Workforce Services, Adult Education Section.
