Danville Area Community College: DACC launches ELEVATE 2.0 pathway from GED to career certificates

Danville Area Community College (DACC) has launched its ELEVATE 2.0 Program within its Adult Education Department, an innovative initiative designed to fast-track motivated individuals from earning an Illinois High School Diploma to attaining industry-recognized college certificates. The program is funded through a $225,000 Innovative Bridge Transitions Grant from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), this program runs from Jan. 1 through March 30, 2026. Accelerated Learning for a Brighter Future The program begins with an intensive, accelerated GED course starting March 31. Over 12 weeks, participants will engage in focused subject pods covering math, language arts, social studies, and science - with each three-week block culminating in a subject-matter test. Recognizing the rigorous pace, DACC seeks students who are not only at least 16 years old (17 prior to testing) but also demonstrate a minimum sixth grade reading proficiency and a strong personal commitment, as confirmed through an in-person interview. For those who require an alternative timeline, an additional 8-week accelerated GED course is available during the summer session (June 23 through Aug. 15), dedicating two weeks to each subject area. From Diploma to Industry-Ready Certificates Upon successful completion of all four subject areas and the receipt of an Illinois High School Diploma, program graduates become eligible for a variety of college-level certificate courses. These include in-demand fields such as Public Health Billing Management, CDL Truck Driving, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Welding, Maintenance Mechanic (Manufacturing), Auto Mechanic, Culinary Arts, Direct Service Professional (DSP), Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technician, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and the Child Development Associate (CDA credential). While the majority of these college courses are slated to commence in the fall, participants who complete at least two subject tests can take advantage of shorter-term courses like CDL Truck Driving and Direct Service Professional (DSP) sooner. A Commitment to Lifelong Learning "Enrolling in the ELEVATE Program offers participants the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and a college-level certificate which is an invaluable investment in their future. It opens doors, accelerates the student's education, and prepares them for success in the classroom and the workforce. In today's world, a high school diploma alone is no longer sufficient; higher education, whether through traditional routes or high-demand vocational careers, is essential for unlocking lasting success and opportunity," said Chantal Savage Bryant, Director of Adult Education and Literacy at DACC. Application Process and Support Services Interested applicants must complete a placement test and participate in an in-person interview. Selected students will receive program related benefits and access to support services designed to help overcome any obstacles that might impede their success.To be considered for this transformative opportunity, prospective participants should contact Steffanie Higgins at 217-443-8782 or via email at s.higgins@dacc.edu by Wednesday, March 26, to arrange their testing and interview. Danville Area Community College's ELEVATE 2.0 Program represents a significant stride towards educational and workforce advancement for adult learners, equipping them with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in today's competitive job market.