2. What is GED?

GED stands for General Educational Development. The GED tests are a battery of five tests (Language Arts Writing, Language Arts Reading, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies) which, when passed, certify that the taker has American or Canadian high school academic skills. A student can prepare for the GED at Tacoma Community House but must take the actual tests at a certified testing center. There are centers in Tacoma at the community and technical colleges.

3. What does ESL stand for? ABE?

ESL stands for English as a Second Language; ABE stands for Adult Basic Education.

4. What are basic skills?

Basic skills include reading, writing, and math. TCH provides classes for these subject areas at basic levels through Pre-GED.    

5. Do I have to pay for classes at TCH?

Yes, all of our classes cost $25 per quarter. Students receiving TANF can get a waiver.

6. How do I sign up for a class?

The State of Washington requires that adults who participate in ABE or ESL classes take the CASAS test. In order to sign up for a class a student must attend an information session and make an appointment to be tested. We provide testing times during the week that can accommodate students who work and students who can attend in the day. Call and ask for an appointment at 253-383-3951. 

7. What is the CASAS?

CASAS stands for Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems. The CASAS tests that are used in the Adult Basic Education system in Washington are standardized tests that help programs place students in an instructional level. CASAS is also used to measure students' progress after 45 hours of instruction. 

8. I work. Are there classes at different times of the day for me?

We have ESL classes that operate in the morning, afternoon and evening. Our basic skills classes operate in the mornings and afternoons. See the schedule for current class times.

9. What if I can't attend four days a week?

We have a tutoring program called LINK. This program matches students with trained volunteers who can help them learn to read or to tackle a specific goal, such as passing a test. Tutors are asked to work with students at least two days a week. Times can be arranged to fit students' schedules.

10. Where do you offer classes?

For the location of our classes, click here.

11. Am I eligible to attend your classes?

First, you must be an adult 18 years or older. Sometimes we will enroll someone who is 17 years old if he or she is close to turning 18. 

Second, we do not serve English language learners who are on visitor, student, or academic visas. 

Third, we offer 6 levels of ESL. If an individual tests higher than the classes we offer, we will refer him or her to one of the community colleges.

12. How long does it take to get a GED?

This is a common question that has always been difficult to answer. The GED exam is very challenging. At TCH we offer basic skills classes, pre-GED and GED preparation. The amount of time it takes a student to pass the GED depends on where the student starts and how hard the student works. 

13. I just want to learn math. Can I take just one class?

Yes, it is possible to take only one class at TCH. 

14. I'd really like to learn to use a computer. Do you have computer classes?

Staff is available to help students learn to use computers and to use educational software. But at this time only students enrolled in our educational programs can use the lab at our TCH site. 

15. I'd like to eventually go to community college. How can you help me?

TCH works with the five community and technical colleges in our county. We can help our ESL and basic skills students prepare to go on to the college programs, get financial aid, and explore career options.