Central Arizona College Recognizes National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week
By Angela Askey, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer
Central Arizona College (CAC) recognizes Sept. 13–19, 2026, as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, highlighting the importance of education in helping adults build skills, pursue new opportunities and strengthen their families and communities.
CAC’s Adult Education program provides free instruction and support to adults throughout Pinal County who want to earn a high school equivalency (HSE) or improve their English while preparing for college or strengthening workplace skills. HSE/GED preparation and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes are offered at multiple locations and online. throughout Pinal County.
According to the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, 28% of U.S. adults perform at Level 1 or below in literacy, while 34% perform at Level 1 or below in numeracy. The 2023 American Community Survey also indicates that nearly 21 million adults lack a high school credential and more than 20 million have limited English proficiency.
CAC’s HSE program goes beyond GED test preparation, offering instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies, along with digital and financial literacy, workforce preparation and college and career transition support. Students receive guidance as they consider employment, career training or further education.
For English language learners, CAC’s ESOL program strengthens listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Students also develop digital literacy and workforce skills.
“Adult education is about much more than earning a credential or learning a new skill. It is about opening doors to opportunity and giving adults the confidence and tools to build a stronger future for themselves and their families,” said Susan Aguilar, Adult Basic Education Director.
The program also provides pathways to further education and career training through CAC’s Integrated Education and Training efforts, with opportunities in areas such as health careers, hospitality and tourism, supply chain and retail logistics, and paraprofessional preparation.
Students who successfully complete CAC’s HSE program may also qualify for a CAC scholarship covering the equivalent of in-state tuition for up to 12 credit hours.
For more information about CAC’s Adult Education program, email Adult.Education@centralaz.edu or call 520-494-6440.