Adult Learning Centers by the NYC Department of Education (NYCDOE) provide information and advice on adult education classes and services.

WHAT IS ADULT EDUCATION?

• Over 800 free classes--see course catalog below

• For adults age 21 and over

• Held both during the day and evening, Monday through Saturday

• Based at more than 175 sites in all five boroughs,

• You can take classes anywhere in the city, regardless of which borough you live in.

• Taught by certified teachers

• Tuition-free

• Some classes require fees for textbooks, certification exams, and/or uniforms

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BASIC EDUCATION AND HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY?

• Basic Education classes address lower literacy levels in reading and math to prepare students for High School Equivalency classes (HSE).

• HSE classes prepare students for the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC).

WHAT TYPES OF CLASSES DOES THE ADULT LEARNING CENTERS OFFER?

• English as a Second Language: Helps students build English language and reading skills

• Basic Education: Basic literacy and preparation for the High School Equivalency Assessment Exam

• High School Equivalency Classes: Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC)

• Career and Technical Education with year-round courses in computer literacy, health careers, technology, auto mechanics, carpentry, plumbing and electrical training

WHO DO THESE PROGRAMS AIM TO SERVE? Adults aged 21 years and older in all five boroughs who do not have a high school diploma or equivlaency.

WHAT ARE LITERACY ZONES? Literacy Zones are drop in centers that can help families cope with the challenge of assimilating into a new culture and learning a new language. Literacy Zone staff can offer resources that help with housing, legal, medical, employment and other needs. There are four Literacy Zones:

• BRONX: The Bronx Literacy Zone (BxLZ): 3450 E Tremont Avenue, Room 302, Bronx, NY 10465, (718) 863-4057, extension 3021

• MANHATTAN: Mid-Manhattan Literacy Zone (MMLZ), 212 W 120th Street, Room 102, New York, NY 10027, (212) 666-1919, extension 1021

• BROOKLYN: Brooklyn Literacy Zone (BLZ), 475 Nostrand Avenue, Room 107. Brooklyn, NY 11216, (718) 638-2635, extension 1070

• QUEENS: Queens Literacy Zone (QLZ), 25-35 Jackson Avenue, Room 309, Long Island City, NY, 11101, (718) 361-9480, extension 3091

The High School Equivalency Central Processing Unit is located in the Brooklyn Literacy Zone (BLZ) and can be contacted via telephone at (718) 638-2635, extension 1208.

HAVE THESE PROGRAMS BEEN SUSPENDED DUE TO COVID-19? Many in-person classes and events have been suspended until further notice. Students are encouraged to enroll in remote learning by emailing adultednyc@schools.nyc.gov or calling (646) 481-8227. For updates to the NYCDOE's response to COVID-19, please visit https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/health-and-wellness/coronavirus-update.