Philadelphia FIGHT offers free GED preparation classes at ICJ, 21 S. 12th St, 7th floor. Classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00-6:00 PM. These classes are only open to individuals who are living with HIV, have a history of incarceration, are currently on probation or parole, or are transgender. Tokens are provided.
The class size is small, fewer than 15 students at any one time, which enables the instructor to provide focused attention. Class work is based on the five topics covered in the GED test: reading, writing, social studies, science, and math. There is a combination of group and individual activities.
Adults have a number of obstacles that may make it hard for them to attend a class every week. To work around that, the FIGHT classes run on a one-class, one-lesson approach. If for any reason a student can’t attend class, they can come back again when they are able. Unlike most GED programs in Philadelphia, no one is discharged from the class if they are absent several times.
Students move forward at their own pace, so the amount of time that they need in order to be ready to take the GED test depends on the individual. Some students need a few months, some need years. Of course, the more regularly someone comes to class, the quicker they will be ready for the GED test.
If you are interested in joining this class, or if you would like more information, contact Holly Pester, hpester@fight.org or (215) 985-4448 x 171.