CNA students at Job Corps

Academics

In addition to career training, Cascades Job Corps also provides academic training, including basic reading and math. Courses in independent living, employability skills, career success standards, and social skills are offered in order to help students transition into the workplace. We also have several academic programs to help our students achieve their full potential.

Basic Information Technology

Cascades provides a basic information technology (BIT) class for all students to take during their third and fourth week on center. This course ensures that all students are capable of using computer skills within their career choice. Basic keyboarding, use of office applications, resume writing, and Internet research are some of the key areas taught in this two-week course.

Testing and Placement

We require that you take the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) during the first week in orientation. This battery of tests includes:

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Math Application and Computation
  • Written Essay

If you score below the required competency level, you will take a quarterly TABE follow-up test every 90 days until you complete. The following classes are required if your initial academic test score shows need:

  • The Reading class teaches reading comprehension and vocabulary. These skills will help you to achieve a GED.
  • The Math class teaches basic math skills, such as working with whole numbers, using fractions, measurements, decimals, and percentages. This class will also teach math needed for a trade.
  • The Writing class teaches basic workplace communication writing skills. Letters, memos, word processing on computers, and essay writing for the GED are covered in this class.
  • English as Second Language (ESL): This class teaches English for English language learners. After basics are learned, it focuses on workplace communication skills. It includes speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Vocational English is also taught.

GED/High School Diploma Programs

One of our top goals at Cascades Job Corps is to ensure that every qualified student obtains his or her GED/high school diploma prior to leaving the center.

The GED test is composed of five separate tests: writing, social studies, science, literature, and math tests.

Required Classes for GED or High School Diploma

  • Math and Reading
  • Work Place Skills: This class covers job attitudes, application forms, job listings and resumes, plus survival skills needed for everyday living in the working world. It also includes skills for keeping a job.
  • Leadership Training: Basic leadership skills such as goal setting, self awareness, coping, listening, speaking, teamwork, motivating yourself, responsible living, and how to deal with others positively are taught in this class.

High School Diploma Requirements

Students may enter our high school diploma program based upon:

  • Transcripts received from former high school
  • Completion of GED
  • Recommendation of academic staff

Our students attend high school on campus in the State Street High School Building.

Driver's Education

Driver's Education is available to all our students. However, preference is given to those who need a driver's license to complete their career technical training.

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Page last updated: Wednesday, April 01, 2009