Massabesic Center for Adult Learning is proud to have supported many adult learners through the process of achieving their High School credential and we would like to work with you too. If you are interested in joining our program or would just like to learn more, please call us at 207-247-2022, email mcal@rsu57.org or visit our office at the East Building of the High School. Please also see some of our frequently asked questions below.
What is the difference between high school diploma and high school equivalency?
We offer both High School Diploma and High School Equivalency classes, but they look slightly different. We offer High School Diploma classes to students who only have a small number of credits needed in order to graduate. We would need a copy of your transcript in order to see what credits you need, and then would work on setting up classes and independent study for you to work on. Credits require 45 hours of learning, which is why we only offer the High School Diploma program to students who only need a few credits.
For students who don’t have as many credits, we instead offer the High School Equivalency program, which is called HiSET (formerly the GED). This program involves working on five subject areas – Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Students work with our instructors and then pass a test in each subject in order to graduate. The program is very individualized, meaning that you only take each subject test when you are ready.
How do I get started?
To get started, you need to call our Student Advisor, at 207-247-2022 and ask to schedule an appointment to discuss the best options for you. We will go through the intake process, which involves some paperwork, and then set a time to do a placement test in Reading and Math. This is just so that we can get an idea of what we need to work on with you first, and what your strengths are. After that, you will be able to attend classes in the evenings and work on your HiSET or HSD.
Do I have to pay for classes or testing?
No – our education programs and tests are completely free.
When are classes?
Classes are drop in Monday through Thursday. We recommend that you come twice a week for two hours. Our class hours are between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm.
We also have a class at the Parsons Memorial Library in Alfred on Monday afternoons from 12:45 – 2:45 pm.
When will I graduate?
We work with you at your own pace, so the timeline to graduate is different for everyone. Once you have passed all five of your HiSET tests or completed your credits, you will graduate from our program. We hold a graduation ceremony in June to celebrate all of our students’ hard work.