Governor Bredesen Announces New Funding for Adult Education

NASHVILLE - Governor Phil Bredesen and Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner James Neeley announce new funding for Tennessee’s Adult Education program.  The $2.5 million in new funding will be used to increase teacher pay, allow additional testing and instruction and pay for the GED test fee. 

“The GED test fee is an obstacle for many individuals who have studied and are prepared to pass the exam, but who cannot pay the test fee,” said Governor Bredesen.  “In 2005, a federal incentive grant paid for the test fee and increased the number of GED diplomas by 33 percent.  With 1.2 million citizens in Tennessee without a high school diploma, it’s important that we do everything we can to support Tennessee’s adult learners.”

“This additional funding is what Tennesseans need to be more competitive economically and have a better educated workforce,” said Commissioner Neeley.  ”More GED diplomas raise the education level of the state, which makes Tennessee more attractive to businesses looking to relocate.  I’d like to thank the members of the General Assembly for their overwhelming support for additional funding for this program.”

Senator Jim Tracy introduced the legislation in the Senate.  “Tennessee’s Adult Education Program will benefit greatly from this new funding,” said Tracy.  “My hope is this will increase the amount of individuals who get their GED and improve their future.”

Representative Les Winningham introduced the bill in the House.  “The GED is a great achievement for those adults without a high school education,” said Winningham.  “I know this increased funding will help thousands of Tennesseans to better their lives and provide better pay to the educators dedicated to helping these individuals.”