Youth GED Program
Introduction
The Youth GED Program is a test-when-ready program for 16-20 year olds. Students are enrolled through their high school guidance office and attend either a morning or afternoon session. Once a student has met the minimum attendance requirements and demonstrated readiness for the GED test, he or she is referred to the next scheduled exam.
Program Content
Students are instructed in all areas relevant to the GED exam. These include reading comprehension in a variety of subject areas, math, and writing. Classes consist of group instruction as well as individualized lessons. Most of the materials used in class are specifically geared to preparation for the GED exam. In addition, life skills, college searches, and career exploration are incorporated into the curriculum.
Class Location and Schedule
There are three Youth GED classrooms located at the Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES Main Campus. Students are assigned to one or the other, in the morning or afternoon, on a space-available basis. The morning session runs from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The afternoon session begins at noon and ends at 2:30 p.m. Student requests for a particular placement will be honored whenever possible.
Program Cost
There is no cost to the student for these classes. School districts belonging to the Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES buy a certain number of “slots” in the Youth GED Program each academic year. As students test out of the program they are replaced with new students from their own district. Most districts have a waiting list, and enrolled students are expected to make good use of their time while in the program. Students who refuse to engage in GED preparation activities will generally be dropped from the program by their home school so that another student can have a chance.
F.A.Q.s
Who is eligible?
Any high school student who is at least 16 years of age may be qualified to enter the Youth GED Program at The Center for Learning. Factors such as the number of high school credits earned or date of birth may affect eligibility. Students should discuss their options with a guidance counselor in order to determine if a GED program is right for them.
What about transportation?
Busing is provided by the home school districts.
When can I take the GED exam?
The GED exam is offered monthly at both Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES or Auburn High School. It is also offered at alternate times in neighboring counties (Onondaga, Tompkins, and Cortland). For students with approved GED testing accommodations, individual and small-group tests will be arranged as needed.
A student becomes eligible to sit for the exam by meeting the minimum attendance requirement, attaining a 9th grade reading level, making documented gain in his or her weakest academic subject area, and earning a passing score on the official GED practice test. There is no set timeline for completing these goals; while one student may be ready to test by the time he or she has completed the required 12 hours of instruction, another may be with us for more than one academic year. In general, a student that has worked hard to meet these requirements can expect to test in a reasonable amount of time.
Click here for more information and test dates
What will I be tested on?
The GED exam consists of five subject tests in Science, Social Studies, Reading, Mathematics, and Writing (which consists of multiple-choice questions and an essay). Proficiency in reading comprehension, essay writing, and basic mathematical concepts are most important for success on the GED exam.
How can I get started?
The first step is to contact your high school guidance counselor. He or she can determine your eligibility, complete the paperwork, and let you know how soon you could begin.
Where can I get more information?
Information regarding any program is readily available by telephone at 253-0361 x5110 or by email at kfitzgerald@cayboces.org or by stopping in at 1879 West Genesse St. Rd.
Forms
2013-2014 GED Application Packet
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